How can I prevent the spread of germs through my hands?

To prevent the spread of germs through your hands:

• Wash your hands. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that hand washing is the number one way you can prevent the spread of disease. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water. Aim for a minimum of 20 seconds. Whistle while you wash: You should be cleaning your hands for the approximate length of time it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used if a sink isn't nearby.
• Sneeze or cough in the crook of your elbow. There are thousands of saliva droplets that contain millions of viruses in a typical cough or sneeze. When you cover your mouth with your hands, the virus lands in your palm and is easily transferred to everything you touch. You can also cough or sneeze into a tissue, but throw it away immediately. Then wash your hands.
• Keep your hands off your face. Germs enter the bloodstream through various mucous membranes. Try not to rub your eyes or put your fingers near your mouth or pick your nose. If your nose is dry, try coating it with an emollient protective barrier such as petroleum jelly or beeswax. Regular use of neti pot can keep sinuses and passages clear.