(NAPS)—Each year germs cause millions of cases of illnesses—everything from common colds to potentially life-threatening foodborne illnesses. Fortunately, there is a simple meansof prevention: Washing and drying hands properly is the mostsignificant way to reduce the possibility of spreading germsandin turn prevent dis- ease. Follow these handwashing tips from the Georgia-Pacific Health Smart Institute to help protect your family: Keep your handsclean! e Rub your hands together with soap and waterfor at least 20 seconds. Carefully wash all surfaces of your hands, especially the spaces between your fingers and under yourfingernails where bacteria hide. e After handwashing, dry your hands with an absorbent paper towel such as Sparkle. Com- munal cloth towels can harbor bacteria and re-contaminate hands. By using disposable paper towels, you wipe off and throw awaythe germs. To avoid contact with poten- tially contaminated surfaces in public restrooms, grasp the faucet handle with the used paper towel to turn off the water and use the same paper towel to open the door whenleaving. For more information on stay- ing healthy, please call 1-877- GPCLEAN, visit the Web site at www.gphealthsmart.com or write to Georgia-Pacific Health Smart Institute, PO. Box 2411, Palatka, FL 32178-2411.
