Hand hygiene

Hand hygiene means cleaning hands effectively to reduce the spread of germs. It includes washing with soap and water and, in suitable circumstances, using an alcohol-based hand rub. The method and timing matter: a quick rinse or sanitiser applied over visible dirt does not provide the same cleaning as proper handwashing.

When should I wash my hands?

Useful moments include before preparing or eating food and after using the toilet, changing nappies, handling rubbish or contact with bodily fluids. Wash after caring for someone with an infectious illness and when hands are visibly dirty. Healthdirect describes washing with soap and water for at least twenty seconds.

Clean the backs of the hands, between fingers, fingertips and around nails, then rinse and dry. Children may need help to clean thoroughly. The aim is consistent technique rather than simply wetting the palms.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Hand washing - Healthdirect Australia.

Is hand sanitiser always enough?

Hand rub can be useful when hands are not visibly dirty and washing facilities are unavailable, but it does not replace soap and water in every situation. Follow the product directions and current infection-control advice for the setting or illness.

Keep sanitiser away from young children and supervise use. It should not be swallowed. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek advice from the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26, or call 000 for severe symptoms.

What if frequent washing irritates my skin?

Use gentle skin care and discuss persistent cracking or dermatitis with a pharmacist or clinician. Damaged skin may need treatment and adjustments to products or workplace practices. Avoid abandoning necessary hygiene without finding a workable alternative.

Doccio's online doctor service may help assess suitable skin or infection-related concerns. Hand hygiene reduces transmission risk but does not guarantee you will avoid illness. Symptoms such as severe dehydration, breathing difficulty or marked deterioration require appropriate medical care, even when good hygiene has been followed.

Where to go next

Read online doctor consultations to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.