Global Handwashing Day is October 15

Established in 2008 by the Global Handwashing Partnership, Global Handwashing Day is celebrated every year on October 15 as a day dedicated to “advocating for handwashing with soap as an easy, effective, and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives.”

This year’s theme is “Clean Hands for All,” which follows the push to leave no one behind in the Sustainable Development Agenda set forth by the United Nations, according to globalhandwashingday.org. “Inequalities in handwashing facilities and effective handwashing promotion programs can put individuals at higher risk for diseases that impact their health, education, and economic outcomes. This year’s theme reminds that we must be inclusive when addressing handwashing disparities. No matter your role, you can celebrate Global Handwashing Day!”

Since 2008, community and national leaders have used Global Handwashing Day to spread the word about handwashing, build sinks and tippy taps, and demonstrate the simplicity and value of clean hands. Today, Global Handwashing Day is endorsed by governments, schools, international institutions, civil society organizations, NGOs, private companies, individuals, and more.

Global Handwashing Day planner tools and downloadable materials to promote global handwashing in your community or organization are available on the event’s website. See what events will take place in your area with the interactive map on the website.

Image courtesy of Global Handwashing Partnership