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Consider all the surfaces you touch over the course of the day. Then consider all the other people who have touched the same exact surfaces as well. Let's face it -- our hands are dirty bacteria transmitters. They are the common link in spreading germs.
You may know that washing your hands is essential, especially during cold and flu season, but do you know how to wash them effectively? The CDC recommends washing your hands, front and back, for 15-20 seconds with regular soap and water (no need for antibacterial soaps--using these can actually cause adverse effects). A good rule of thumb is to recite the entire alphabet in your head from start to finish while scrubbing up. This is sufficient time to rid your hands of any harmful germs that may be lingering.
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