Hand hygiene reduces viral infections by over 40%

To mark Global Handwashing Day on October 15, health experts are emphasizing the importance of maintaining hand hygiene as a daily preventive habit. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, proper handwashing can reduce digestive diseases by 30% and acute respiratory infections by 17%.

Key moments for effective hygiene include before preparing or eating food, after using the bathroom or changing diapers, and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing one's nose. Medical professionals note that these simple daily actions can significantly reduce infections, protect patients, and improve the quality of healthcare.

For effective cleaning, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends scrubbing all surfaces of the hands—including palms, backs, between fingers, thumbs, and under nails—with soap for at least 20 seconds before rinsing and drying completely.