BY ALLISON KOZICHAROW; EDITED BY BERNICE BORN
What is the first line of defense against almost all infectious diseases? Yes, that’s right — handwashing. Handwashing is key to the prevention of everything from the common cold to Ebola.
Handwashing is one of the best ways to remove germs (bacteria, parasites and viruses) to avoid getting sick and to prevent the spread of germs to other people.
WiRED International offers a module on handwashing which is particularly useful to parents and teachers when discussing the topic with their children. In fact, many of the health education modules in WiRED’s Learning Center stress the importance of handwashing.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) promotes handwashing as a do-it-yourself vaccine. What a painless way to stay healthy!
Handwashing in Communities
Handwashing with soap is not only simple and inexpensive, but also can dramatically reduce the number of young children who get sick. Teaching children and adults alike about handwashing helps them and their communities stay healthy. Handwashing education in the community can:
Source: CDC