???The Power is in Your Hands??? is the theme for this year???s Global Hand Washing Day, which will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 15, around the world.
The day was created by The Global Public-Private Partnership for Hand Washing (PPPHW) and designated by the UN General Assembly in 2008. It aims to shine a spotlight on the state of hand washing in each country and to raise awareness about the benefits of washing one???s hands with soap.
This year???s theme seeks to emphasise that everyone can improve their own health by washing their hands with soap, especially after using the restroom and before touching food.
The PPPHW is a partnership of 10 public and private organisations championing the cause of hand washing globally. It advocates that teachers, parents, health care professionals and others can improve the health of children and adults in their communities by promoting hand washing at critical times.
In addition, the partnership encourages governments, not-for-profit organisations, the private sector, and donors to promote and invest in hand washing programmes to improve health on a large scale.
Hand washing with soap is among the most effective and inexpensive ways to prevent diarrheal diseases and pneumonia. Since its inception, Global Hand Washing Day has been echoing and reinforcing the call for improved hygiene practices worldwide.
melissa.rollock@barbados.gov.bb