CABANATUAN CITY (PIA) — The Department of Health (DOH) Central Luzon Center for Health Development (CLCHD) emphasized the importance of regular and proper handwashing as one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent the spread of diseases.
DOH CLCHD Health Program Officer Jisha Marie Mendoza said proper hand washing should last for 40 to 60 seconds, which is equivalent to singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.
She explained that the correct steps include wetting the hands with clean water, applying enough soap, and scrubbing all parts of the hands for at least 20 seconds — including the palms, backs of the hands, between the fingers, under the nails, thumbs, and wrists.
After scrubbing, Mendoza said hands must be rinsed thoroughly under clean running water and dried immediately using a clean towel or tissue since wet hands can easily attract germs and bacteria.
She added that when soap and clean water are not available, people are advised to use 70 percent alcohol or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, which is the most effective concentration in killing germs, viruses, and bacteria on the hands.
“This type of alcohol contains enough water to slow down evaporation, giving it more time to kill germs while being less harsh and drying on the skin, making it safer and more comfortable for daily use,” she reiterated
Regular handwashing, she said, can help prevent common illnesses such as diarrhea, colds, flu, eye infections like conjunctivitis, and hand, foot, and mouth disease, especially among children.
Mendoza reminded the public that maintaining proper hygiene is essential for preventing illnesses and protecting oneself, one’s family, and the community, particularly students and those in areas with limited access to clean water, as well as during outbreaks.
“Always remember that handwashing is the first line of defense against any disease,” she emphasized.
The DOH continues to call on the public to practice proper handwashing techniques as a vital daily routine to ensure a clean, safe, and healthy community.(CLJD/MCAL,PIA Region 3-Nueva Ecija GIP)
