Hand Washing
Starting Out
Glossary terms are highlighted. Select a term to see the definition.See the glossary for definitions.
Why Wash Your Hands?
Children with medical conditions are at a higher risk of becoming sick from germs spread by others.
When you wash your hands often—and teach others to do the same—you may be able to help your child stay healthier.
What Did I Do Today?
Which of these things have you already done today? Choose any activities that apply to you.
Stop the Spread of Infection
Why does washing my hands prevent the spread of infection?
Washing your hands prevents the spread of infection because it lifts and eliminates germs from the skin of your hands. This stops you from passing the germs to other people or surfaces.
Similarly using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer on your hands works because alcohol is deadly to many (but not all) types of germs.
