Early flu surge highlights vital role of hand hygiene

World Hand Hygiene Day underscores the critical role of handwashing in curbing the spread of infectious diseases, particularly during the colder months when illnesses like influenza and respiratory infections rise.

According to the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), the 2025 flu season began exceptionally early – starting in the week of 24 March (week 13) – making it the earliest onset in more than a decade, since 2010. This marks a significant shift, as the 2024 season only began four weeks later, in late April.

Data from the NICD’s pneumonia surveillance programme also confirms that the most prevalent influenza strain currently in circulation is influenza A(H3N2), which accounts for 68% of lab-confirmed cases to date.

Respiratory illnesses, like colds and flu, are transmitted through droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces, making hand hygiene an essential barrier against infection. The World Health Organisation (WHO) emphasises that proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective measures to prevent the spread of infection in healthcare settings and in the community.

Ingrid Singels, Marketing Manager for Pharma Dynamics’ Scientific Division, highlights the importance of hand hygiene in public health.

“Hand hygiene is a fundamental practice that significantly reduces the burden of infectious diseases. As we enter the winter season, reinforcing the habit of regular handwashing can lead to substantial public health benefits.”

“Use clean running water and soap and scrub all parts of your hands – including the backs, between our fingers and under the nails – for at least 20 seconds before rinsing and drying thoroughly. Key times to wash hands include: before and after eating and preparing food; when caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting/diarrhea; before and after treating wounds; after using the toilet, changing nappies or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet; after coughing or sneezing; after touching animals or their waste; after touching dirt and when coming home from public places.”

The WHO’s 2025 campaign theme emphasises that while gloves are used in healthcare settings, they are not a substitute for hand hygiene. Proper hand hygiene practices, including using the correct techniques and handwashing at the right times, are crucial for protecting both patients and healthcare workers.

Singels says public awareness campaigns and education are vital in promoting hand hygiene practices.

“Community engagement initiatives can lead to increased compliance and a reduction in the spread of infections. By fostering a culture of hand hygiene, communities can protect vulnerable populations and reduce the overall incidence of winter illnesses.”

Given the early arrival of the flu season and the dominance of circulating strains like A(H3N2), health authorities are urging the public – especially high-risk individuals, such as the elderly, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic conditions – to prioritise flu vaccination and seek medical care early if flu-like symptoms develop.

As the country prepares for the winter season, emphasising the importance of hand hygiene is more crucial than ever. Through concerted efforts in education, community engagement and adherence to proven hand hygiene practices, the nation can mitigate the impact of winter illnesses and safeguard public health.