December is Handwashing Awareness Month to educate people and highlight the importance of handwashing because it is the most effective way to stop the spread of illnesses. According to CDC, handwashing alone reduces the risk of getting sick by 40%.
The most common ways germs are spread from unwashed hands are touching your face, preparing or eating food, touching shared surfaces such as countertops and doorknobs, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing into hands. It is important to wash your hands after these key times and often, especially during the flu season. If soap and water are not readily available, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, containing at least 60% alcohol, is also effective in preventing the spreading of germs and illnesses.
Some of the most common illnesses that are spread from unwashed hands include:
- The common cold
- Influenza
- Pneumonia
- Meningitis
- Hepatitis A, B, and C
Handwashing is easy and simple by following these five steps:
- Wet hands with clean, running water and apply soap
- Lather the back of hands, between fingers, and under nails
- Scrub hands for at least 20 seconds
- Rinse hands under clean, running water
- Dry hands using a clean towel or air dryer
There are some tips to add to your daily routine that will help keep your hands free of germs and reduce your chance of getting sick:
- Always keep hand sanitizer with you
- Teach your children how to wash their hands properly
- Set a good example by washing your hands regularly
- Post signs and reminders about handwashing in your home or workplace
As a Local 663 member, you and your family members have access to TEAM, an employee assistance provider, at no cost to you. (800) 634-7710 | www.startwithteam.com
To ensure you receive all pertinent information, please update your address with the Fund Office, Wilson-McShane Corporation, when you move. To update your information, you may access the Change of Personal Information Form from the website www.663benefits.com. You may also call (952) 851-5797 or toll-free (844) 468-5917 to request a Change of Information Form.