The Infection Control Committee of PAU Hospitals made the following statement:

“World Handwashing Day, observed every year on October 15, aims to promote proper handwashing habits and raise awareness of infection prevention. Hand hygiene practices emphasized by the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Health play an important role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases and ensuring the safety of patients and healthcare workers. As the Infection Control Committee of Pamukkale University Hospitals, we continue our efforts in line with scientific guidelines to prevent infections and raise awareness of hand hygiene.”

“When Should Hands Be Washed?”

Providing information on handwashing to promote hand hygiene and prevent infections in healthcare facilities, the committee stated:

“Hands should be washed with soap and water before meals, after using the toilet, after coughing or sneezing, after touching contaminated surfaces, and whenever they are visibly dirty. During handwashing, the palms, backs of the hands, spaces between the fingers, thumbs, and areas around the nails should be cleaned thoroughly, rinsed well, and dried. Practicing hand hygiene at the five key moments identified by the WHO contributes to the delivery of safe healthcare services. Wearing gloves does not replace hand hygiene.

On the occasion of October 15, World Handwashing Day, we invite everyone to develop proper handwashing habits and make hand hygiene an essential part of daily life. Let us work together for clean hands, safe healthcare services, and a healthy society!”