Global Handwashing Day

Tags: Important Days

The Global Handwashing Day is observed on 15 October every year around the world. It is an attempt to raise awareness amongst the people and the countries to the benefits of handwashing with soap as an easy, effective, and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives.

 The habit of washing hands at the right time in the right way prevents many diseases including diarrhoea, covid, stomach infections  and encephalitis.

Background to the Day 

Global Handwashing Day was founded by the Global Handwashing Partnership.  The first Global Handwashing Day was held in 2008, when over 120 million children around the world washed their hands with soap in more than 70 countries on 15 October. Since then it has been observed around the world.

Theme of the Global Handwashing Day 2022 

The 2022 Global Handwashing Day theme is “Unite for Universal Hand Hygiene.” 

Benefit of washing hand with soap 

Elaborating the benefits of washing hands with soap the Global Handwashing Partnership says that “Germs that can cause diseases lodge in dirt, grease, and the natural oils on hands. Water alone does not dislodge them, but soap helps break down germ-carrying oils. Soap also facilitates rubbing and friction which can remove germs from the hands, and so that germs can be rinsed away with water. Using soap also adds to the time spent washing and ensures a more effective wash. With proper use, all soaps are equally effective at removing germs that cause disease.”