Global Handwashing Day, 15 October 2020

Global Handwashing Day, on 15 October 2020, aims to increase awareness and understanding regarding the importance of handwashing with soap, as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives.

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has acted as a reminder that one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of viruses is simple hand hygiene, especially handwashing with soap. To decrease the spread of COVID-19 and ensure better health outcomes beyond the pandemic, handwashing with soap is a priority.

The theme for Global Handwashing Day 2020 is ‘Hand Hygiene for All’, and calls for all of society to achieve universal hand hygiene. Lack of access to handwashing facilities and effective handwashing promotion programmes can put individuals at higher risk for diseases which may impact on their health, education and economic outcomes.