Hands are the part of the body that are most exposed to microorganisms because they touch many things every day. Some diseases are spread when disease-causing microorganisms on a person's hands get into food that he or she touches. When the food is eaten, the microorganisms enter the body and cause foodborne illness. Thorough handwashing with hot, soapy water prevents bacteria from transferring from hands to foods.

You should wash your hands thoroughly after these activities:

• Before and after handling food
• After handling raw eggs or uncooked meats, poultry, or fish and their juices.
• After using the bathroom
  
• After changing a diaper
  
• After handling pets
  
• After caring for a sick person
  
• After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing