On Global Handwashing Day, Here Are 6 Things You Should Know

The simple act of washing hands can go a long way in maintaining hygiene and providing protection against diseases.

Global Handwashing Day is observed on 15 October to draw attention to how a small act of hygiene can go a long way in saving lives.

Handwashing with soap could prevent about 1 out of every 10 cases of diarrheal illnesses and almost 1 out of 6 cases of respiratory infection like pneumonia. Diarrheal illnesses along with pneumonia kill 1.4 million children under the age of 5 every year, according to a 2016 UNICEF report.

To further accentuate the importance of washing hands, here are six simple pointers to keep in mind.