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Water, Sanitation, and Environmentally Related Hygiene (WASH)
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    Many diseases and conditions can be prevented or controlled through appropriate personal hygiene and by regularly washing parts of the body and hair with soap and water. Good body washing practices can prevent the spread of hygiene-related diseases.

    Keeping Hands Clean
    A boy washing his hands with his mother's assistance

    Learn when and how you should wash your hands to stay healthy.

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    Nail Hygiene
    Cutting nails with nail clippers

    Learn more about grooming your nails and best ways to prevent nail infections.

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    Facial Cleanliness
    Person washing their face

    Learn about why it’s important to wash your face regularly and important ways facial hygiene prevents disease.

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    Coughing and Sneezing
    Another sick day with a woman sneezing

    Learn about preventing the spread of disease when you cough or sneeze.

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    Foot Hygiene
    Person washing their foot

    Learn more about hygiene for healthy feet and the dangers of fish pedicures, how to prevent athlete’s foot and more.

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    Hair and Scalp Hygiene
    Man washing his hair

    Learn how maintaining a healthy scalp and proper hair care can prevent and control many diseases and conditions.

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    Menstrual Hygiene
    Menstrual products

    Learn more about good menstrual health and hygiene practices that can prevent infections, reduce odors and help you stay comfortable during your period.

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    More Information
    • Healthy Contact Lens Wear and Care: Protect Your Eyes
    • Hygiene-related Diseases
    • Handwashing: Clean Hands Save Lives
    Last Reviewed: December 1, 2022
    Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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    • Hygiene Fast Facts
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      • Keeping Hands Clean
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        • Frequently Asked Questions on Cleaning Infant Feeding Items
        • How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean: The Essentials
        • Frequently Asked Questions on Breast Pump Cleaning
        • How to Keep Your Breast Pump Kit Clean: Science Behind the Recommendations
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      • How to Clean and Disinfect Your Home
      • How to Clean and Disinfect a Facility
      • Cleaning and Disinfecting with Bleach
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      • Clean Hands and Spaces: Web-Based Training
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