Hand Hygiene

The most common way germs are spread is by people’s hands.  Germs are often harmless but they can cause illnesses such as colds and tummy bugs, as well as more serious illnesses such as E.coli and flu.  Hand contact is also the most common way for infections such as MRSA and C diff to spread.
 

Hand washing is the single most important thing you can do to help to reduce the spread of infections.  Washing your hands properly with soap and warm water can help protect you, your family, children and others. Did you know it takes at least fifteen seconds to wash your hands properly - this is about how long it takes to sing 'Happy Birthday to You' twice through!

You should make regular and thorough hand washing part of your and your family’s daily routine, especially:

The latest NHS Tayside HAI Board Reports contain information on hand hygiene are available for download.

Health Protection Scotland (HPS) has also produced a leaflet for washing clothes at home, available for download below.