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Put Your Hands Together

A person washing handsScientists estimate that up to 80% of all infections are transmitted by our hands. Harmful germs can live on almost anything – from doorknobs, to animals, even food. Handwashing may be the single most important act you can take to help stop the spread of infection and stay healthy.


A man helps a girl wash her hands

Handwashing is one of the most effective infection control measures we have, yet many people do not practice good hand hygiene in their homes, at their workplaces, in schools, or in health care settings. To promote the importance of proper handwashing, CDC-TV has released a new video, "Put Your Hands Together," in its "Health Matters" series.

The video features interviews with epidemiologists, medical doctors, and health communication experts that explain how infection spreads through our hands. The video also includes step-by-step instructions about proper handwashing technique, including how long to wash and what to do when soap and water are not available. Users can download the video or the podcast at CDC-TV, or they can access it on their mobile phones. Organizations can use the video in a number of ways, especially as an instructional tool for caregivers, teachers, healthcare providers, and new parents.

In Support of Healthiest Nation

New "Health Matters" features are released at CDC-TV each month. The videos are produced in collaboration with CDC subject matter experts and are designed to provide insights into important health issues, information about CDC research and programs, and ways viewers can address the issues. Each feature includes links to related resources, so that users can find more information. Other CDC-TV content includes PSAs and innovative content, such as the animated Eagle Book series.

Providing high-quality, scientifically-accurate videos is part of CDC's goal to provide health information to the public where, when, and how they need it to protect and promote their health. CDC's health marketing efforts contribute to making the United States the healthiest nation it can be. You can join CDC and our partners in this initiative by becoming a member of the Alliance for a Healthiest Nation.


More Information

USA.gov: The U.S. Government's Official Web PortalDepartment of Health and Human Services
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention   1600 Clifton Rd. Atlanta, GA 30333, USA
800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: (888) 232-6348, 24 Hours/Every Day - cdcinfo@cdc.gov

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