Colds, the flu and other illnesses spread quickly from person to person through the air and from direct contact. Unwashed hands provide a breeding ground for germs of all sorts and can quickly lead to infection.

One of the most common ways that someone can contract a cold is by rubbing his or her eyes or nose after coming in contact with a cold virus. The virus then can potentially spread to other people and surfaces. In fact, the average baby or toddler catches up to 10 colds per year, and school-age children usually catch three to six colds per year.

According to Dr. Lori Patterson, Infectious Disease Specialist at Children's Hospital, hand washing is the simplest and most effective way to prevent the spread of disease. "Good hygiene is easy, and it doesn't take long; just make sure you practice frequent hand washing, especially during the winter months when colds and flu are most common," Patterson said.

Patterson also stresses the importance of knowing how to wash your hands the right way. Use water and soap and work up a lather on both sides of the hands, the wrists, between the fingers and around the fingernails for about 15-20 seconds; try singing the chorus of a favorite song such as "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" or "Happy Birthday" twice to time yourself. Rinse and dry hands with a clean towel – a disposable paper towel is best.

Parents need to also teach their children appropriate times to wash their hands. These times include:
	Before eating or touching food in any way
	After using the bathroom
	After coughing, blowing one's nose or sneezing
	After touching or feeding any pets or animals
	After playing outside
	When someone in the home is ill
	As soon as children get home from school, church or any outing

Colds aren't the only illness easily transmitted through person-to-person contact. Hepatitis A, meningitis and infectious diarrhea can all be transmitted through unwashed hands. Countertops, doorknobs, money and telephones all harbor germs because of being touched by people's hands.

Insisting on proper hygiene can help keep your family healthy. By practicing frequent hand washing, everyone in the family can help eliminate germs that have been picked up from contaminated surfaces, animals and other people. Hand washing is generally considered the most important way to stop the spread of infection. If access to soap and water is unavailable, alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a good substitute.

According to Patterson, parents "often underestimate the power of hand washing. The few seconds you spend at the sink with your child could save you trips to the doctor's office."

	Wash Your Hands for Good Health
	KidsHealth article for parents: "Why Is Hand Washing So Important?"
	KidsHealth article for kids: "Why Do I Need To Wash My Hands?"
	Hand washing tips from Shoney's and Children's Hospital
	Infection Prevention