Virginia Tech® home

VCE COVID-19 resources

The importance of handwashing

Renee Boyer teaches the proper technique to wash your hands.

The following resources are provided by Virginia Cooperative Extension in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Each member of the community plays an important role in preventing the community spread of COVID-19 by following these precautions: 

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick (at least 6 feet of distance).  
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.  
  • Stay home when you are sick.  
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.  
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning product.  
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.  
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains 60%–95% alcohol.