Publicity drives to promote hand hygiene

Red packets with health message are being distributed by the Department of Health (DH) at all immigration checkpoints to remind members of the community the importance of hand washing in preventing infectious diseases.

The red packets were produced by DH as part of the publicity drives in the "Wash hands for Better Health" campaign launched to remind members of the public that good hand hygiene is the first line of defence against infectious diseases.

Other initiatives in the campaign included the production of pamphlets, posters, stickers and calendars, all carrying proper hand washing advice.

The pamphlets, posters and stickers are being distributed or put up at various community settings including housing estates, shopping malls, schools, clinics and food premises in an effort to convey the messages directly to all walks of life.

The calendars have been distributed to schools last month and were well-received by the target group.

A spokesman for the Department said the aim of the campaign is to help promote good hand hygiene in the community.

Members of the public are reminded to wash all parts of the hands, including finger tips, web, palm and wrist, with liquid soap for at least 20 seconds and rinse afterwards under running water. Hand washing before eating and touching eyes, mouth and nose, after touching contaminated places and going to toilet is prudent.

More information on proper hand washing can be obtained from the Central Health Education Unit 24-hour Hotline 2833 0111.