During the cold winter months, when we don’t get outside as often, germs have a much easier time of spreading and making us sick. But infection experts say there’s one simple way to stop germs in their tracks. Handwashing is like a "do-it-yourself" vaccine you can take to reduce the spread of illness. Regular handwashing is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. It's quick, it's simple, and it can keep us all from getting sick. Handwashing is a win for everyone…except the germs!

            Tiffany Horsley is an infection control nurse at The University of Kansas Health System. In the video, she explains why hand hygiene is so important, when you should perform hand hygiene, how to keep your hands healthy and the difference between using regular soap and water vs an alcohol based hand sanitizer. Also, Lance Williamson, another infection control nurse, demonstrates the right way to wash your hands at the sink, including shutting off the faucet with your towel, so you don’t contaminate your newly sterile hands. Their suggestion is keep up the washing while singing the following song (to the tune of “Let it Snow”)

            Oh the germs out there are frightful

            But Purell is so delightful

            So remember this simple plan

            Wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands