COVID-19 Preventative Measures: Clean Your Hands Often1
Updated April 21, 2020
This flyer is best viewed as a PDF. It provides guidance for washing your hands to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Washing your hands is easy, and it's one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
HANDWASHING STEPS
Wet your hands with clean, running water.
Apply soap.
Lather and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds.
Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
WHEN TO WASH HANDS
After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
Before and after caring for someone that is sick
After going to the bathroom
Before and after preparing food
During food preparation as needed
Before eating food
Before putting on a face covering and after removing/handling a used face covering
HAND SANITIZER
If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry.
For More Information
Visit: www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov
(800) 232-4636
