Wednesday, December 1, 2004

Atlantic County Observes National Handwashing Week

The Atlantic County Division of Public Health encourages you to join in promoting proper handwashing to prevent the spread of illness and disease, during National Handwashing Week, December 5-11, 2004.

In association with the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, the division is reminding residents that frequent and thorough handwashing helps prevent the spread of germs that cause disease and illness in your community.

Whether you are at home, work, or school, handwashing is one of the most important things you can do to keep from getting sick and spreading germs to others, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Handwashing is especially important, during the current flu vaccine shortage, to reduce the spread of influenza.

Proper handwashing hygiene includes scrubbing hands for at least 20 seconds with soap, rinsing and drying hands with a paper towel, and using that same paper towel to turn off the water and open the restroom door.

"Taking these simple precautions can help you to stay healthy during cold and flu season," stated Atlantic County Health Officer Patricia Diamond.

For more information about National Handwashing Week, contact the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609)645-5853.

County News