May 5th is World Hand Hygiene Day. Each year, the World Health Organization launches a global campaign that focuses on the importance of hand hygiene for healthcare workers. However, hand hygiene isn’t just limited to healthcare workers!

So why is hand hygiene so important? Practicing good hand hygiene (specifically washing hands) helps prevent the spread of bacterial infections and viruses. You can either use soap and running water, or alcohol-based hand rubs to disinfect your hands.

Now, between the two options, which one is more effective? Washing with soap and water is most effective, in most cases, especially if your hands are visibly soiled. Meanwhile, in healthcare settings, alcohol-based hand rubs are the preferred method for decontaminating hands because they contain over 60% alcohol. Using an alcohol-based rub is better than washing hands when hands aren’t visibly soiled.

One common concern about frequent hand washing is that it will dry out the skin. The best way to prevent dry skin is to apply hand lotion or cream after washing your hands. Interestingly enough, most alcohol-based hand rubs contain emollients to reduce the incidence of skin irritation.

Washing hands is important. Not only for our personal health but also for the health of our community.

By Jenn Barnes, Dispensary Assistant