October 15, 2025
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov
High Five for Hand Hygiene!
The Chesapeake Health Department Has the Dirt on Global Handwashing Day
CHESAPEAKE, Va. – In honor of Global Handwashing Day, October 15, the Chesapeake Health Department has some dirt on people that will probably gross you out! We also have some fun ideas for teaching kids the right way to wash.
The filthy truth:
- Poop from unwashed hands frequently makes people sick.
- A single gram of poop, about the weight of a paper clip, can contain one trillion germs.
- Only 63% of people were seen washing their hands after using public restrooms.
- Nearly half of U.S. adults admit to not washing their hands at other key times, such as before preparing food or eating.
- Germs often spread when someone coughs or sneezes into their hands and then touches another person or thing (handrails, toys, etc.).
“WOW, a simple, cheap way to keep us all healthy and well – what a deal!!!” declares Dr. Nancy Welch, Health Director, Chesapeake Health Department. “Handwashing helps avoid doctor visits, absences from school, and paying medical bills. Save your money for things that are more fun so you can enjoy every day!”
Scrubbing with soap and water can cut cases of diarrhea by up to 40%, slash missed school days from tummy bugs by nearly 60%, and reduce colds and coughs by more than 20%.
The key is to wash your hands properly. Proper handwashing means scrubbing for at least 20 seconds between the fingers and under the nails. Encourage your kids to properly wash their hands by making it fun with songs or games.
- Sing “Happy Birthday to You” song twice or the “Alphabet Song.”
- Put glitter on their hands and pretend it’s germs. They need to get them all!
- Use colored or scented soap.
- Get a blacklight and look at hands before (dirty) and after (clean) washing.
- Print posters or stickers to promote good handwashing habits.
If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. To learn more, visit the VDH Hand Hygiene page or contact our Epidemiology Team at the Chesapeake Health Department. chesapeakeepi@vdh.virginia.gov
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