The International Community is observing today as Global Hand Washing Day.


The day is aimed at enlightening the public on best hand washing practices.
 In this special report, Blessing Ijedibia who spoke with some
individuals on the significance of the event reports that 
the Global hand washing day came into existence in 2008.


  Available statistics shows that adequate and proper hand washing can
reduce respiratory and intestinal infection among others.


  Commenting on the event, a health educator in primary health care
center at Osuma Onitsha Mrs Ogochukwu Maduabum, while highlighting on the proper ways of hand washing said adequate hand washing must last
for fifteen seconds  and advocated the use of soap while washing hand.
 She called on parents to start early enough to educate their children
and wards on the need for hand washing after play and work.
ABS was at Central School Umuoji in Idemili North Local Government
Area to ascertain the level of awareness and observed that the old
tradition of hand washing basin at the front of each class and  pupils
were seen washing their hands after recess and work.
One of them Miss Ifechukwu Onyeagolu said she washes her hands always
after work.


On her part, a teacher Mrs Fidelia Ekedigwe said the gains of hand
washing cannot be over emphasized especially as it concerns children.
For the President of the Women’s Ministry in Aguata Diocese Mrs
Chinyere Ezeofor parents especially Mothers should inculcate proper
hygiene practices on their children as part of efforts to ensure a
healthy lifestyle.


Mrs Ezeofor, commended the United Nations for setting out a day to
observe hand washing, calling on stakeholders to step up enlightenment
campaigns on hand washing in order to achieve the set objective.
The Theme for this year’s event is “Clean Hand for All”.