On May 5, 2025, World Hand Hygiene Day, the Delhi Society for Promotion of Rational Use of Drugs (DSPRUD), in collaboration with Delhi’s Health and Education Departments, hosted an awareness program for over 350 school teachers across the capital. Themed “Clean Hands, Bright Classrooms: Hygiene Starts with Us,” the initiative aimed to underscore the critical role of hand hygiene in preventing infections in schools and communities, fostering a culture of health and safety.

Hand hygiene, the practice of keeping hands free from bacteria and viruses through regular washing with soap and water, is a proven shield against diseases like diarrhea, flu, and tuberculosis (TB). “Teachers are role models who can instill lifelong hygiene habits in children,” said Dr. Ranga Reddy Burri, President of the Infection Control Academy of India, during the event. Dr. Ravindra Agarwal, Senior Consultant at Lok Nayak Hospital, highlighted high-risk areas like canteens and restrooms, urging schools to prioritize respiratory hygiene and symptom recognition. The emphasis on hand hygiene, amplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, remains vital for public health.

The program also addressed TB prevention, aligning with India’s goal to eliminate the disease. DSPRUD President Dr. Sangeeta Sharma emphasized, “Educating teachers and students on infection control is key to achieving TB-free communities.” Dr. K.S. Sachdeva, DSPRUD Vice President, led a session on early TB detection and treatment adherence, stressing contact tracing and tackling drug-resistant strains. By empowering educators, the initiative positions schools as pivotal allies in public health campaigns.

This collaborative effort reflects Delhi’s commitment to healthier futures, with hand hygiene as a cornerstone. As teachers carry these lessons to classrooms, the ripple effect could transform community health, proving that small actions like washing hands can yield profound results in the fight against preventable diseases.