On May 5th, the WHO recognizes World Hand Hygiene Day, with this year’s campaign slogan emphasizing the vital role of hand hygiene: “It might be gloves, it’s always hand hygiene.” This day serves as a reminder of the importance of hand hygiene practices and invites us all to join in raising awareness about this crucial aspect of health and safety.
Hand hygiene, a simple yet powerful practice, saves millions of lives every year. However, it remains an overlooked routine for many people. World Hand Hygiene Day is an opportunity to remind us of the life-saving power of proper hand practice. By promoting hand hygiene, we contribute to a safer society where people are responsible not only for their own health but also for the well-being of others.
This year’s campaign also highlights the challenges related to hand hygiene in combination with usage of medical gloves. It emphasizes that while gloves are an important part of infection control, they do not replace the need for hand hygiene. Following the WHO’s “5 Moments for Hand Hygiene” remains essential. Additionally, the campaign draws attention to the environmental impact of excessive glove use, which has led to significant healthcare waste. In 2020 alone, healthcare facilities generated 591 tonnes of personal protective equipment (PPE) waste per day.
At SARAYA, we are committed to fostering a deeper understanding of hand hygiene and environmental sustainability. Our 5th of May 2025 posters aim to educate the public on the importance of hand hygiene practices and the responsible use of gloves. Proper hand hygiene can prevent the spread of infectious diseases, while mindful glove usage helps reduce waste, directly benefiting the environment and contributing to climate sustainability.
SARAYA actively supports healthcare workers by providing training and resources that promote infection prevention and control (IPC) practices globally. For more information, visit our healthcare solutions page.
