Sanitation

Hand Hygiene During Emergencies

Clean hands prevent more illness than almost any other public health measure. Here's how to maintain hand hygiene when you can't wash normally.

Person using hand sanitizer in an emergency setting

After a disaster, diarrheal illness and other infections spread rapidly in communities without adequate sanitation. Hand hygiene is the most effective single intervention.

When running water isn't available, hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) works for most purposes. For food preparation and wound care, use treated water or alcohol wipes.

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Sanitation
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72-Hour Kit
72-Hour Kit