Rep. Brent recognizes National Handwashing Awareness Week with House resolution

COLUMBUS – State Representative Juanita Brent (D-Cleveland) recognized this year’s National Handwashing Awareness Week (Dec. 1-7) by introducing a House resolution today. National Handwashing Awareness Week promotes the use of proper hand hygiene and handwashing techniques, including washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water.

Rep. Brent also introduced House Bill (HB) 628 earlier this year, which would provide educational materials regarding proper hand hygiene to hospital patients and long-term care residents of healthcare facilities.

“I introduced this resolution, as well as HB 628, to recognize the importance of proper hand hygiene,” said Rep. Brent. “It is time for the state to promote the CDC standards for proper handwashing among Ohioans. When combatting COVID-19, we must follow best practices, including wearing a mask and washing our hands properly, to stop the spread and achieve a new normal. Implementing strong handwashing practices that are accessible in all settings, including homes, businesses, and hospitals, will help eliminate COVID-19.”

More than 239,000 Americans have died from COVID-19 this year. Improper hand hygiene also contributes to the spread of other diseases. Researchers have estimated that if everyone routinely washed their hands, a million deaths a year could be prevented.