Health Facts: Want to Stay Healthy? Take Time to Wash Your Hands

Here are two lesser-known but important facts about handwashing:

1. Handwashing Helps Prevent the Spread of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria: Proper handwashing can help reduce the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. When we frequently wash our hands with soap and water, we remove bacteria from our skin that could potentially contribute to the spread of these resistant strains. If bacteria are regularly removed before they have the chance to multiply and spread, it reduces the likelihood of them transferring to other people or surfaces.
2. Handwashing Is More Effective with Friction and Duration: Many people don’t realize that simply rinsing hands under water isn’t enough. The friction created by rubbing your hands together while washing, along with the duration of washing (at least 20 seconds), is crucial for dislodging and removing germs. This mechanical action, combined with soap’s ability to break down oils and contaminants, ensures that more germs are effectively removed from the skin.