K-State Research and Extension

Global Handwashing Day is October 15, 2024. Why is this important? Handwashing with soap and water is one of the simplest, most effective ways to stop the spread of germs and stay healthy. Keeping hands clean can help prevent diarrheal illnesses and respiratory infections, such as the common cold or flu.

In five easy steps, you can help prevent the spread of germs and disease.

1. Wet your hands and apply soap.
2. Lather your hands, including the backs of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails.
3. Scrub your hands at least 20 seconds.
4. Rinse your hands with clean, running water.
5. Dry your hands with a clean towel or air dry.

Learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/clean-hands/about/index.html.

I confess. I love puppies! How can you resist those cute fuzzy faces! Unfortunately, puppies are currently linked to an outbreak of Campylobacter in seven states affecting 39 people, including Kansas. This is not puppy love.

It is a fact, animals carry germs. This outbreak is traced back to puppies sold at Petland stores. The suspected source of the bacteria is dog feces. Symptoms of Campylobacter include diarrhea (bloody), fever, stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Symptoms develop in two to fives days after exposure and last about a week.

When puppy shopping, look for shiny, soft, clean fur. The puppy should be bright, alert, and playful. Always take the puppy to your veterinarian for a check-up as soon as possible. If the puppy is sluggish, not eating, or has abnormal breathing, see your veterinarian.

Always wash your hands after handling any animal, their food, or cleaning up after them. This important step will help stop the transfer of disease to you.

Learn more at https://www.cdc.gov/campylobacter/outbreaks/puppies-9-17/index.html.

October 15 is designated as Global Handwashing Day. The theme, Our Hands, Our Future, is a reminder that handwashing protects your health and other life aspects.

This simple practice should be a habit as it is the most effective and inexpensive way to protect your health.

To help promote handwashing, there are many resources from the American Cleaning Institute at http://bit.ly/2w8cTRJ and www.fightbac.org/.

“Even in the United States, where soap is plentiful, handwashing doesn’t happen as often as it should.”