In the middle of the influenza war  
taking the basic step maybe the biggest step to win

Washing our hands is the most simple and effective way to clear ourselves of  any pathogens (including bacteria or viruses) and chemicals which can cause personal harm or disease.   The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated: "It is well-documented that one of the most important measures for preventing the spread of pathogens is effective hand washing." In addition to hand washing with soap and water, the use of alcohol rubs is a much more efficient and safer way to kill germs than the use of soap and water or antibacterial soap and water.

Frequent hand-washing as often as 10 times a day 20 seconds or more, is one of the most recommended defenses against the influenza season.

1.      Wash your hands with hot running water and soap. Children should use warm running water.
2.      Rub your hands together for at least 20 seconds.  To the tune of "Happy Birthday" twice to help.
3.      Pay special attention to your wrists, the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails.
4.      Leave the water running while you dry your hands on a paper towel.
5.      Use the paper towel as a barrier between the faucet and your clean hands when you turn off the water.

If soap and water are not available, use gel hand sanitizers or alcohol-based hand wipes containing 60% to 90% ethyl alcohol or isopropanol. Most supermarkets and drugstores carry these products. Carry one or both with you when you travel, and keep them in your car or purse.If using the gel sanitizer, rub your hands until the gel is dry. You don't need to use water. The alcohol in the gel kills the germs on your hands.