This Hand-Washing Technique Helps Prevent The Flu And Colds

The winter season is notorious for being the time of the year for colds, the flu and other infections. So, now that the cold weather is here to stay for a while, you’re going to want make sure you protect yourself and your kids from germs.

That means you’re going to have to give more than just a quick rinse with soap and water when you wash your hands. Consumer Reports explains the best way to wash your hands to prevent flu, germs and bacteria. It’s a little bit of an involved process, but hey, if you stay healthy this winter, it will be time well spent.

Check out this video for a tutorial on the correct way to wash your hands.

You start out by rinsing and then adding soap. Note: the video points out that the water temperature is not necessarily important.

Another important thing to notice is that the cleansing process is about much more than just the palm of your hands. You have to really scrub the back of the hands, in between the fingers and the fingertips as well.

Be sure to hold your hands pointed down toward the sink so that dirty water doesn’t drip down your arm.

These extra steps can really go a long way in preventing you from becoming sick this holiday season. So, head to the nearest sink and get to scrubbing—because you know your hands feel dirty now that you’ve read this!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains that the best way to avoid the flu is to get vaccinated, but officials say frequent hand-washing can also help to prevent infection. The CDC recommends washing often and when soap and water are not available, the next best bet is an alcohol-based hand rub.

Another thing you can do to stay healthy this winter is be sure to keep tissues handy so you can cover your mouth and nose if you sneeze. Also, avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Those habits, on top of your new-and-improved hand-washing technique, will hopefully keep the germs away for your healthiest holiday season yet!

[h/t: Consumer Reports]