Handwashing
Handwashing is one of the most important ways of controlling the spread of infections, especially those that cause diarrhoea and vomiting, and respiratory disease. The recommended method is the use of liquid soap, water, and paper towels.
Always wash hands after using the toilet, before eating or handling food, and after handling animals. Cover all cuts and abrasions with waterproof dressings.
Washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing and sneezing will help reduce the risk from viruses such as swine flu [link to swine flu hygiene guidance]
The handwashing guidance sheet shows the recommended technique. (Taken from: Ayliffe GAJ et al. Control of hospital infection; a practical handbook. 3rd ed. Chapman and Hall, London, 1992.)
handwashing guidance sheet (PDF, 295 KB)
Handwashing in primary schools
As young children are particularly at risk of catching and spreading gastro-intestinal and respiratory infection so the Agency has developed a resource pack to teach handwashing in primary schools, using an animated character called Max. This pack, which focuses on Key Stage 1 pupils, was developed in discussion with teachers, pupils and school nurses. It is an easy to use self contained pack which links with various curriculum areas, including PSHE, Science and Art and Design.
The pack is being sent free to primary schools across England during November 2009.
Some of the materials from the pack are downloadable here. The animation is not currently available to download.
poster for schools (PDF, 195 KB)
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Lesson plans for Key Stage 1:
What are germs with printed germ characters to colour in.
What are germs (PDF, 95 KB)
Colouring sheet 1 (PDF, 145 KB)
Colouring sheet 2 (PDF, 243 KB)
Colouring sheet 3 (PDF, 111 KB)
Colouring sheet 4 (PDF, 124 KB) -
Healthy hands, healthy school (Key Stage 1 or 2) part 1 and 2.
Healthy hands, healthy school. Part 1 (PDF, 168 KB)
Healthy hands, healthy school. Part 2 (PDF, 175 KB) -
The Max guide to hand washing game.
The Max guide to handwashing game (PDF, 569 KB) -
Fun facts.
Fun facts (PDF, 91 KB)
For further information please contact handwashing@hpa.org.uk
e-Bug
The Health Protection Agency has also developed a web based student resource called e-Bug which is aimed at Key Stages 2 and 3. e-Bug has a broader remit with activities covering, useful and harmful microbes, hygiene, prevention of infection and antibiotic use. It can be used to build on the Key Stage 1, Hands up for Max, handwashing teaching resource. The e-Bug packs will be distributed free to schools in 2009.
