Robert Koch Institute updates hand hygiene recommendations

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has updated its hand hygiene recommendations, stating that warm water is not necessary for effective infection protection. According to the institute’s Epidemiological Bulletin, washing hands with soap and cold water is sufficient to remove germs and bacteria.

This change in guidance follows assessments by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Research indicates that water temperature does not impact the effectiveness of removing pathogens. For example, studies involving Escherichia coli showed no significant difference in cleanliness between washing with 4°C water versus 40°C water.

The RKI is specifically advising healthcare facilities that warm water is no longer required at medical handwashing stations, a recommendation that also applies to general hygiene in everyday life.