New Delhi, May 5 (IANS). Increasing pollution and changes in weather bring with them many diseases. However, since Covid-19, awareness among people regarding personal hygiene has also increased. Yet infectious diseases remain a constant challenge. Hand hygiene plays the most important role in preventing these diseases. On the occasion of ‘World Hand Hygiene Day’, understand the ‘Sumank’ method from National Health Mission (NHM), which is an easy and effective way of hand washing.
Health experts say that by developing the habit of washing hands properly, many diseases can be prevented from developing. This is a cheap, easy and most effective solution, which protects the health of the family.
The message from experts on ‘World Hand Hygiene Day’ is to make a habit of washing hands frequently. Make sure to follow the ‘Sumank’ method after cooking, eating, using the bathroom, coming from outside or touching a child. Small habits are very important to stay healthy.
Before knowing the method of Sumank, let us know what is ‘Sumank’? It is made up of the letters of the English word SUMANK. This is an easy way to remember the 6-step hand washing process.
S (Straight): First apply soap to both the palms and rub them thoroughly while keeping them straight.
U (Reverse): Rub the hands on both sides by turning them upside down.
M (Fist): Clench your fist and rub your hands thoroughly with soap.
A (thumb): Take the thumbs in the fist and rub them on both sides.
N (Nails): Clean the nails thoroughly with soap, because most of the dirt and bacteria hide here.
K (Wrist): Finally, clean both the wrists by rubbing them thoroughly.
According to UNICEF, after completing these 6 steps, one should wash hands with soap for at least 40 seconds. After that wash hands with clean running water and dry them with a clean towel or air dryer.
Under the National Health Mission’s ‘Clean Hands, Safe Life’ campaign, it has been reported that the ‘Sumank’ method effectively removes bacteria, viruses and other pathogens. This prevents diseases like flu, Covid-19, diarrhea, stomach infection. This method is very useful especially for children, elderly and people with weak health. It also proves helpful in reducing infections in hospitals and improving blood flow.
–IANS
MT/ABM