Influenza caused 14,400 deaths last year. However, hands transmit the flu virus in 80% of cases. The same holds true for colds, bronchitis, and gastroenteritis.
It's essential to wash your hands correctly to stay healthy. Here's a simple, effective method that takes just 45 seconds to drastically reduce your risk of flu or gastro.
1. Wet your hands with a little water.
2. Apply soap to your hands.
3. Vigorously rub your hands together.
4. Scrub fingertips, between fingers, and under fingernails thoroughly.
5. Wash your wrists in a rotating motion using your other hand.
6. Rinse hands and wrists thoroughly under running water.
7. Dry with a single-use paper towel—one is sufficient.
8. Use the towel to turn off the faucet and open the door.
9. Discard the towel in the trash.
Following this technique significantly lowers your risk of catching flu or gastro. It's quick, easy, and highly effective—worth the extra few seconds for better health.
If your hands are very dirty, add baking soda for extra cleaning power. Check out the trick here.
Make handwashing a daily habit to avoid flu and gastro viruses. Key times include:
