Coronavirus: This One Simple Thing May Save You From COVID-19 And It Takes Only 20 Seconds

With the coronavirus outbreak resulting in COVID-19 disease threatening to turn into a pandemic, people are desperately looking to secure themselves and ways to avoid being infected. According to health officials, one fundamental way to help keep viruses from spreading is washing hands thoroughly with soap and water. As per the United States' Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another. CDC also explains how, when and for how long your should wash hands. It only takes 20 seconds to wash your hands well. A very general and fun way to time your hand washing is to singh the "Happy Birthday" song from beginning to end twice while scrub your hands.

Here's all you need know about the how and when of washing your hands to prevent spread of infections including the novel coronavirus:

Coronavirus: When Should You Wash Hands

When it comes to washing hands, the more the better. According to CDC, one should wash their hands often, especially during key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:

• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before eating food
• Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea
• Before and after treating a cut or wound After using the toilet
• After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
• After handling pet food or pet treats After touching garbage

ALSO READ: Coronavirus Symptoms, Treatment And How To Be Safe From Infection

Coronavirus: How To Wash Your Hands

You can follow these five steps while washing your hands: Wet your hands with clean, running water. Apply soap and ather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. It is important to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Rinse your hands well. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Coronavirus: What About Sanitizer

While using soap and water is the best way, one can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol too. While sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of germs, they don't get rid of all types of germs. CDC advises to use soap and water when hands are visibly dirty or greasy.

Coronavirus: Precautionary Measures

In other precautionary measures, CDC advises people to cover their cough or sneeze with a tissue and dispose the tissue in the trash. They should also clean and disinfect frequently touched objects using cleaning spray or wipe. One should avoid touching their mouth, nose and their eyes with dirty hands.

(Source: cdc.gov)