RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to emphasize the importance of regular handwashing during National Handwashing Week, set for December 1-7, 2024. RaeAnn Tucker visited local schools to talk to the children about handwashing. Amid the ongoing challenges of COVID-19 and seasonal illnesses, officials highlight that proper hand hygiene is a crucial defense against spreading infections. This week aims to educate and remind the public of the simple yet effective practice of washing hands to prevent diseases and maintain overall health. For more tips and information, access resources at henrystarkhealth.com. First Choice Health Clinics are open for seasonal COVID-19 and flu vaccines.
To put this in greater perspective, one should consider these startling statistics:
- 2/3 of adults in the US wash their hands after using the bathroom.
- 1 in 4 adults do not wash hands after changing diapers.
- Less than 1/2 of Americans washed their hands after cleaning up after pets.
- 1 in 3 wash hands after sneezing/coughing.
- Less than 1 in 5 people wash hands after touching money.
- 1 in 3 E. coli occurrences is caused by not washing hands before handling food.
