It can't be reiterated enough. With flu season just around the corner and the current threat of H1N1 (swine) flu, it is extremely important to practice frequent hand washing, and to avoid putting hands near anyone's face, or your own face without first having properly washed your hands. A quick rinse under the tap WON'T do the trick to rid yourself of viruses that may be on your hands. Here's a reminder on how to properly wash your hands:

Hand Washing How-To:

* Wet hands with warm, clean running water and apply soap.
* Rub hands together to make a lather and scrub all surfaces.
* Continue rubbing hands for 20 seconds. (About the time it takes to sing "Happy Birthday"
twice!)
* Rinse hands well under running water
* Dry hands using a paper towel or air dryer. If possible, use the paper towel to turn off the
faucet

If soap and water aren’t available, use alcohol-based gel to clean hands.
Here’s How:
* Apply product to the palm of one hand
* Rub hands together
* Rub the product over all surfaces of hands and fingers until hands are dry.