1 May 2020

The importance of hand-washing during the coronavirus pandemic is being highlighted by health bosses as part of World Hand Hygiene Day (Tuesday, 5 May), which is a global initiative to bring people together to improve hand hygiene around the world.

Regular and effective hand hygiene is the single most important thing you can do to protect yourself and others from infection during the coronavirus outbreak. Washing your hands properly removes dirt, viruses and bacteria to stop them from spreading to other people and objects, which can spread illnesses. It can help stop people from picking up infections and spreading them to others.

Dr Julian Povey, Chair of Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) , and a local GP, said: “World Hand Hygiene Day is a great reminder to us all – whether we work in healthcare or are at home during the lockdown – to keep washing our hands regularly. If we don’t wash our hands, we could be responsible for spreading coronavirus.”

Dr Jo Leahy, Chair of Telford and Wrekin CCG, and a local GP, added: “It is vital that we all remember to keep washing our hands and to do so for at least 20 seconds – about the time it takes to sing ‘Happy Birthday to You’ twice.

“Use soap and water or a hand sanitizer as soon as you get home or into work, also after blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing, and eating or handling food. Simply remembering to do this will help to stop the spread of infection, save lives and protect the NHS.”

To find out more about the best way to wash your hands, visit: www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/best-way-to-wash-your-hands/