Mumbai: To commemorate Global Handwashing Day, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road has embarked on a distinctive endeavor by organizing sessions in schools across the Borivali & Mira- Bhayandar area. Over 1,000 students were educated on the technique of proper handwashing practices for lifelong protection against infectious diseases.
Proper handwashing is a simple yet powerful tool in the fight against diseases. “Besides being a basic personal hygiene practice, it plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of infections. As the hands come into contact with various surfaces throughout the day, they become natural reservoirs for harmful germs and bacteria. Without frequent and thorough handwashing, these microorganisms can easily find their way into our bodies through the mouth, nose, or eyes, leading to illness. Proper handwashing not only helps prevent common colds and flu but also significantly reduces cases of more serious infectious diseases such as pneumonia, diarrhea, COVID-19, and even gastrointestinal infections. In an effort to alert children about the importance of handwashing, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road organized this valuable event to promote hand hygiene techniques. The students received instruction on the essential steps of handwashing, including when and how to properly wash their hands by demonstrating it” Dr Badshah Khan, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road.
Dr Badshah Khan added, “We were delighted by the enthusiastic participation of around 1000 students from schools (J.H Podar High School, Bhayandar, West, Sheth GH High School and Jr College, Borivali East, Ram Ratna International, Uttan Bhayandar West and Our Lady Of Nazareth High School And Junior College, Bhayandar West), and look forward to implementing similar initiatives for the betterment of society in the coming days. By emphasizing the importance of proper hand hygiene across all communities and organizations, we aim to collectively spread awareness on hand hygiene & create healthier environments for everyone.”
“This event helped foster a sense of responsibility towards public health in young minds. Through discussions around illnesses transmitted through contaminated hands. This will undoubtedly create a ripple effect as these students grow up to become mindful individuals who prioritize health not only for themselves but for society as a whole. We extend our heartfelt gratitude towards Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road for organizing this enlightening hand hygiene activity in our school,” said Principal of the School, Mrs Seema Parikh.
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BOX 1
Adhere to these handwashing techniques
- Begin by wetting your hands with warm water
- Generously apply soap to create a lather on both palms
- Vigorously scrub every part of your hands for no less than 20 seconds—ensure you cover the front and back, interweaving fingers, and cleaning under those nails too
- Afterward, use a paper towel to dry off the hands thoroughly
BOX 2
When should one wash his/her hands?
- It is essential to wash your hands before, during, and after food preparation, particularly when handling poultry, seafood, and eggs.
- Wash your hands before eating and before and after changing a baby’s diaper, after using the bathroom. After touching the pets, or any objects or surface.
- Moreover, washing your hands after sneezing, coughing, blowing your nose, touching any part of your body or face, handling garbage, or whenever your hands are dirty is highly recommended.