National Handwashing Awareness Week
                                 A Do It Yourself Vaccine

National hand-washing week is held every year in the month of December, especially when the cold and flu seasons are in full swing. Established by Dr. Will Sawyer, a specialist in infection prevention, the National Hand Wash Awareness Week aims to raise awareness of the role our hands play in the epidemic of various diseases such as influenza, colds, pneumonia, and streptococcus. Since then, hand washing has been an important aspect of preventing the spread of bacteria. This is the most effective means of combating the spread of viruses and bacteria.

When the pandemic first hit, masjids and Muslim institutions desperately needed clear guidance on how to protect their communities. With efforts from Dr. Eldeirawi, Epidemiologist and board member of CIOGC we were able to prepare a plan to combat this virus. His efforts helped create a joint COVID-19 Task Force with volunteers and organizations. This is one of the first coordinated and comprehensive responses to COVID-19 in Chicago range.

The Task Force provides education and guidance to the Muslim community, facilitates access to health and dental care, connects individuals to food and financial assistance, brings resources to community organizations, and is highly needed in the community. The virus has taken many lives to date, to help fight this battle against Covid-19 we must follow all guidelines and precautions highlighted by our medical professionals.

Hand washing is easy and is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of bacteria. Clean hands can prevent bacteria from spreading from person to person and throughout the community-from home or work to daycare or hospitals. If you would like to learn more on proper hand washing and sanitization guide, please follow the link below-

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/hygiene/hand/handwashing.html