Holding hands can be a way of showing affection, but while you’re sharing the love this Valentines Day, you may also be sharing your germs. Share your love, not your germs!

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) compares handwashing to a “do-it-yourself” vaccine. Regular handwashing is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick and prevent the spread of germs to others. It’s quick, it’s simple and it can keep us all from getting sick.

Learn more about when and how to wash your hands, the importance of using soap and water, and what you can do if soap and clean, running water are not available. Whether you are at home, at work, traveling, or already sick, find out how good hand hygiene can protect you, your family, and others.

It’s easy to assume you know how to handwash to avoid infection, but this How to Handwash diagram from the World Health Organization provides a refresher.

Also, keep an eye on your doctor, nurse or anyone that provides you care. They should sanitize their hands before performing services to avoid transmitting germs from one patient to another. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask, “Have you washed your hands?” It could save your life.

Qsource provides the tools to help healthcare providers and patients reduce infections. Learn more.