When should you wash your hands to prevent the spread of germs?

Washing your hands before eating and after using the restroom is essential in preventing the spread of germs. This practice significantly reduces the likelihood of transmitting infections and illnesses.

Before eating, washing hands removes any germs that may be present on your hands, especially if you have touched surfaces, food, or items that may harbor bacteria. Ensuring clean hands before meals helps protect against foodborne illnesses.

After using the restroom, hand hygiene is crucial because it reduces the risk of transferring germs from the fecal matter to your hands, which can lead to various infections if they come into contact with your mouth, food, or surfaces.

Together, these actions represent critical moments for handwashing that align with health guidelines and contribute effectively to maintaining personal hygiene and public health. Neglecting to wash hands in these situations, or only washing them at particular times like cold and flu season, would not address the daily risks of germ transmission during all times of the year.