how effective is hand hygiene in preventing illness
1 Washing hands with the use of a water and soap or a soap solution, either non-antimicrobial or antimicrobial. 2  OR. 3  Applying a waterless antimicrobial hand rub to the surface of the hands (e.g. alcohol-based hand rub). 4  When performed correctly, hand hygiene results in a reduction of microorganisms on hands.