******************************************************
Red packets with health message are being distributed by the Department of Health at all immigration checkpoints to remind people of the importance of washing hands in preventing infectious diseases.
The red packets were produced by the department as part of the publicity drives in the "Wash hands for Better Health" campaign launched to remind people that good hand hygiene was the first line of defence against infectious diseases.
Other initiatives in the campaign included the production of pamphlets, posters, stickers and calendars, all carrying proper hand washing advice.
The pamphlets, posters and stickers are being distributed or put up at various community settings including housing estates, shopping malls, schools, clinics and food premises to convey the messages directly to all walks of life.
The calendars have been distributed to schools last month and were well-received by the target group.
A spokesman for the department said the aim of the campaign was to help promote good hand hygiene in the community.
People are reminded to wash all parts of the hands, including finger tips, web, palm and wrist, with liquid soap for at least 20 seconds and rinse afterwards under running water. Hand washing before eating and touching eyes, mouth and nose, after touching contaminated places and going to toilet is prudent.
More information on proper hand washing can be obtained from the Central Health Education Unit 24-hour Hotline 2833 0111.
Ends/Sunday, January 22, 2006
Issued at HKT 11:04
NNNN
