Between 2010 and 2013, India recorded 7.5% of all-age-group mortality from diarrhea, malaria, and tropical illnesses, with more than 1.32 crore instances of acute diarrheal disease registered in the country in 2019.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! However, hygiene has always lagged in several low- and middle-income countries, resulting in the World Health Organization recognizing WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene) as a human right for all and including it in the Sustainable Development Goals tailored for the world.

According to UNICEF, individuals, particularly males, do not use sanitary facilities regularly. There is an urgent need for effective political support and behavioral change initiatives to raise awareness and make significant progress in this direction.

Diarrhea is caused by microorganisms like Salmonella, norovirus, and E. coli. Every year, around 1.8 million children under the age of five die as a result of diarrheal illnesses and pneumonia. Several studies have shown that more than 2.3 million people lack handwashing facilities with soap and water at home. These studies have also shown that this lack of facilities is very problematic for children.

According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, handwashing education in communities can help reduce diarrheal issues, especially among people with weak immune systems, by approximately 58%.

Every year, Global Handwashing Day is celebrated on October 15. The government and healthcare providers can collaborate to create handwashing policies, strategies, and action plans. 

(Source: https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/washing-hands-can-aid-infection-control-and-prevention-of-diarrhoea-expert-506271 )