This month marks the celebration of Global Handwashing Day all around the world, the message that clean hands can save lives is all the more appreciated. Each year on October 15 over 20 million are involved in celebrations in over 100 countries around the world, mostly that includes the developing country like ours which have a higher mortality rate due bacterial diseases like diarrhea and respiratory ailments especially in children.
By practicing proper handwashing with soap is the most effective and inexpensive way to prevent these diseases. Children are more prone of contamination because they like to play everywhere and not conscious about touching objects around as long a they are enjoying. I can attest to that, because my niece is always playing at the village playground with other kids whom I know fell on the ground from sliding and not washing their hands right after they play hayz...
Recently, I attended an advocacy event that spareheaded by Uniliver's Vaseline brand, the "Pledge Hands to Save Lives" which was held at Shangri-La Hotel at Makati City. I was one of the bloggers who were invited at the said event and it was attended by groups and organizations who support the advocacy for children. UNICEF, the Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Knowledge Channel, and the Philippine Public Health Association to be part of the cause.
This year they aim to teach and help 500,000 kids on proper handwashing by visiting over 300 schools and community nationwide. They will provide handwashing facilities and gave Vaseline samples to those who will join and spread the knowledge of proper handwashing. At the said event we learn and witness the proper handwashing with Jillian Ward as follows: wet your hands with water, apply Vaseline soap/liquid soap rub palm to palm and back, fingers, wrist, between fingers, under fingernails, rinse thoroughly in running water and dry with clean towel.
As a nurse, I really believe and I've always reiterating it on my blog that "prevention is better and inexpensive than cure" and proper handwashing is one of the effective prevention of all. Let us be part of Unilever's advocacy to build a Billion Better Lives by joining activities of "I Pledge My Hand To Save A Life" campaign. By uploading video or photo of you helping and teaching proper handwashing at home, garden, school etc. on Vaseline's Facebook page www.facebook.com/Vaseline or make your pledge count at www.pledgeyourhands.com just click pledge and spread the word for you to get a FREE 2-in-1 healthy soap.
