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Social Media Library

The messages below are intended for organizations, public health officials, and the public to use with social media tools such as Twitter and Facebook. Each message is 140 characters or less, per Twitter requirements. These messages may be used as written or customized to address local or other specific needs.

Social Media Library

Why Wash Hands?

When to Wash Hands

How to Wash Hands

Follow 5 steps to wash your hands the right way. http://go.usa.gov/Xppx

  • Wet hands with clean, running water, turn off tap & apply soap.
  • Lather – rub hands together w/ soap, including backs of hands, between fingers & under nails.
  • Scrub hands for at least 20 seconds. Hum "Happy Birthday"song twice to time yourself!
  • Rinse hands well under clean, running water.
  • Dry hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

Hand Sanitizer

  • If you don’t have soap & water to wash hands, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. http://go.usa.gov/Xppx
  • Hand sanitizers do not kill all germs & may not be as effective if hands are visibly dirty or greasy. http://go.usa.gov/Xppx
  • Use hand sanitizer the right way. Apply correct amount (read label) & rub into all hand surfaces until hands are dry. http://go.usa.gov/Xppx

Science Behind the Recommendations

Resources & Materials

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