Global Handwashing Day 2024: Why Handwashing Should Be Made Mandatory In School? Expert Weighs In

Why Handwashing Is Essential For Children

Dr Ushma Singh said that children are naturally more exposed to germs because they frequently touch surfaces, play in the dirt, and engage in sporting activities where germs and parasites can easily spread.

“Dirty hands are a leading cause of infections in children. From respiratory infections like colds and flu to stomach problems like diarrhoea, all of these can be prevented with proper handwashing,” added Dr Singh.

Children who do not wash their hands after playing outside, especially in soil or sand, are at a higher risk of contracting parasitic infections like pinworms and roundworms. These parasites can enter the body through dirty hands when children touch their mouths or eat without washing up.

“After playing outdoors it is important to wash hands to prevent parasitic infections,” Dr Singh emphasises.

How Dirty Hands Can Lead To Health Issues

Dr Singh said that children’s hands often carry germs and dirt from contaminated surfaces, playgrounds, and shared items like toys or sports equipment. Dirty hands can lead to infections like colds, stomach bugs, and skin infections, which can cause children to miss school and fall behind in their development.

“Children who don’t wash their hands regularly are more likely to fall sick and spread illnesses to others,” explains Dr Singh. Furthermore, parasitic infections, which are quite common in children, are often spread through dirty hands.

“Pinworms, roundworms, and other parasites can easily be transmitted when children touch their mouths after playing in the soil or handling contaminated objects,” Dr Singh explains. These infections can cause discomfort, itching, and more serious health issues if left untreated.

Teaching Children The Importance Of Handwashing

Experts stress the importance of educating children on the reasons behind handwashing. We need to make children understand the importance of washing their hands. We need to instil the mindset that it will not only protect them but also prevent the spread of infections to their friends and families," says Dr Singh.

By making hand washing a regular part of the school day, children are taught a simple but crucial habit that can protect their health.

Dr Singh adds, “Instilling the habit of washing hands early in life ensures that children carry this practice into adulthood, where it can continue to protect them and those around them.”

Handwashing doesn’t just benefit the child—it also prevents the spread of infections in schools and the wider community.

"Children in schools are more prone to infection because of the high-contact environments. Handwashing can stop this cycle and help keep everyone healthy,” says Dr Babita Bansal.

Don't Miss:How To Handwash Silk Clothes And Fabric At Home?

Why Handwashing Should Be Made Mandatory In Schools

Experts believe that handwashing (dos and don'ts of handwashing) should be a mandatory part of the school day. "Schools should make sure that children wash their hands before meals, after using the toilet, and after playing outside or participating in sports," says Dr Babita Singh. "This simple routine can significantly reduce the spread of infections and keep kids healthy,” she added.

For mandatory handwashing to be effective, schools need to provide enough handwashing stations, soap, and clean water. "Access to soap and water is essential," says Dr Ushma Singh.

"Schools must ensure that handwashing is easy and convenient for children,” added Dr Singh.

Don't Miss:6-Minute Walk Test: How It Works and Its Health Benefits

For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi.