Global Handwashing Day annually is observed on October 15 to promote awareness and educate people about the importance of handwashing with soap as an effective and affordable way to prevent diseases and save lives. The day was established in 2008 by the Global Handwashing Partnership and has since grown into a worldwide initiative. The global event is aimed at promoting good hygiene practices, especially in schools, healthcare settings, and communities. October 2024 Festivals, Events and Holidays Calendar: Complete List of Important National and International Days and Dates. 

The international hand-washing promotion campaign is aimed to motivate and mobilise people around the world to improve their hand-washing habits. In this article, let’s know more about the Global Handwashing Day 2024 date and the significance of the annual international event.

Global Handwashing Day 2024 Date

Global Handwashing Day 2024 will be observed on Tuesday, October 15.

Global Handwashing Day 2024 Theme

The 2024 Global Handwashing Day theme is ‘Why are clean hands still important?’.

Global Handwashing Day History

Global Handwashing Day was founded by the Global Handwashing Partnership. It is an opportunity to encourage people to wash their hands with soap at critical times. The first Global Handwashing Day was held in 2008 and over 120 million children around the world washed their hands with soap in more than 70 countries. Since then, Global Handwashing Day has continued to grow every year. Global Handwashing Day is being marked by governments, schools, international institutions, civil society organisations, NGOs, private companies, individuals, and more.

Global Handwashing Day Significance

Global Handwashing Day educates people around the world about the importance of washing hands with soap in order to prevent diseases and infections. Handwashing with soap is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illnesses like diarrhea, respiratory infections, and other communicable diseases. The day encourages governments, organisations, and individuals to promote and adopt proper handwashing habits, particularly in areas with limited access to sanitation.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 14, 2024 01:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).