Final answer:
Proper hand washing is essential for preventing the spread of germs and should involve a thorough process with soap and water, as recommended by the CDC.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the most important actions you can take to prevent spreading germs from one person to another is proper hand washing. This simple yet effective practice is critical for public health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines a five-step process that involves wetting hands with clean, running water, lathering soap on all surfaces of the hands, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds, rinsing under clean running water, and finally drying the hands with a clean towel or air drying.
Proper hand washing is effective because it physically removes pathogens from the skin. This is especially important after using the bathroom, handling raw meats, or being in contact with someone who is sick. Using soap and water is typically sufficient, and antibacterial or antimicrobial soaps are not necessary for general everyday use and could contribute to antibiotic resistance if overused.