The simplest way to prevent your child from getting sick is by enforcing frequent hand washing, says Linette Linsangan, MD, who specializes in pediatric infectious disease.

"More than half of food-related illness outbreaks are caused by unwashed or poorly washed hands," she says. "Make sure your children wash up before eating and after using the bathroom, coming home from school, playing outside and handling pets or animals."

Beware of germs
In day care centers, outbreaks of hepatitis A have been linked directly to not washing hands after changing diapers or using the bathroom. Other pathogens such as E. coli, Salmonella, Shigella and Norwalk virus also have spread from lack of cleanliness.

Respiratory infections, rashes and conjunctivitis (pinkeye) are other illnesses passed from hand to mouth. They can be prevented easily by washing your hands with soap and water.

Linette Linsangan, MD, Pediatric Infectious Disease

Skin and soft tissue infections caused by resistant Staphylococcus aureus, as well as group A streptococcus, which are prevalent in our area, may also be prevented by hand washing and proper hygiene.

Scrub-a-dub-dub
Most children know when, why and how to wash their hands, but they often forget to, says Dr. Linsangan.

"Kids will wash their hands if they can see the dirt -- such as mud or finger paints. But dirt and germs you can't see tend to be ignored," she says.

Parents can reinforce hand washing by setting a good example and washing up with their children. Follow these tips:

• Wash in warm or hot running water, which is more effective at dissolving oils.
• Use soap.
• Wash all hand surfaces: palms, backs of hands, fingers and fingernails.
• Rub lathered hands together for at least 15 seconds and up to 30 seconds (about as long as it takes you to recite the ABCs).

If your child is too small to reach the sink but can be cradled safely in one arm, hold your child to help him or her wash hands. A child who can stand should either use a child-size sink or stand on a safety step at a height that allows the child's hands to reach the running water. Remember to wash your own hands after helping your child clean up.

Antibacterial hand sanitizers Help Clear Germs
Instant hand sanitizing gels and wipes offer a quick and convenient way to kill germs on contact when you don't have the time to wash. Simply rub a dime-size drop into hands and rub until dry. Remember, they may be used with children only under adult supervision.

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