Did You Know Today is "Global Handwashing Day"?

Sandy Grinnell

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Who knew? In under-developed countries, 1.5 million children die each year diarrheal-related illnesses each year. The focus of this year's Global Handwashing Day is to improve the hygiene and sanitation to reduce the number of these deaths.

At a time when the H1N1 virus is spreading across this country, the emphasis couldn't come at a better time. The CDC tells us that the best defense against the swine flu is to wash, wash and wash your hands. Since it is thought that the virus is spread primarily by coughing and sneezing, the CDC has the following recommendations for you to stay healthy:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

• Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.