Things You'll Need:
- Alcohol-based hand washing solution or towlelettes
- Water
- Respiratory mask
- Soap
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Step 1
Wash your hands frequently. Hands are the most common part of the body to pick up viruses or bacteria, and viruses can live on hard surfaces for many hours. If possible, wash your hands after they come in contact with any surface that may be contaminated.
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Step 2
Wash your hands with warm water and soap. Wash with water as hot as you can take it. Antibacterial soaps are no better than those that are not.
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Step 3
Rub your hands together for 15 seconds. Be sure to get soap and water to all surfaces, including backs of hands, between fingers, and slightly above the wrist. Rinse thoroughly. Dry your hands with a disposable paper towel or air dry them.
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Step 4
Alcohol-based towelettes or alcohol-based hand washing solutions can be used if soap and warm water are not available.
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Step 5
Use the alcohol based solutions by loading the palm of one hand with the solution and then rubbing it over all the surfaces of both hands as you would when washing with soap and water. Continue this process until the solution dries. When using a towelette, be sure to cover all surfaces as in any other hand washing technique.
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Step 6
Keep your hands from contacting your eyes, nose and mouth. It is through the membranes in these areas that viruses enter your body. This is as important as washing your hands.
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Step 7
Wear a respiratory mask if you are going to be in a small enclosed area with many people during an epidemic of influenza or other serious respiratory illness. This not only prevents you from spreading viruses, but it also prevents you from infecting yourself by touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
