It is a globally known and accepted fact that good hand washing protects against the spread of many illnesses from the common cold (which is responsible for 22 million lost school days each year) to more serious illness such as meningitis, flu, hepatitis A, and most types of infectious diarrhea. First Line of Defense against Germs: Germs can spread many ways, including:

• touching dirty hands
• changing dirty diapers
• through contaminated water and food
• through droplets in the air released during a cough or sneeze
• on contaminated surfaces
• through contact with a sick person’s body fluids

When children come into contact with germs, they can unknowingly become infected simply by touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. And once they’re infected, it’s usually just a matter of time before the whole family comes down with the same illness. Good hand washing is the first line of defense against the spread of many illnesses — from the common cold to more serious infections, such as meningitis, bronchitis, the flu, hepatitis A, and most types of infectious diarrhea. The power of hand washing cannot be underestimated! The few seconds spent at the sink could save several trips to the doctor’s office.