Handwashing 'inadequate'

When asked what they thought were the most effective ways to improve levels of handwashing, respondents cited increased and consistent education and messages.

For adults, respondents stressed the importance of visual cues to continually remind and educate. Advertising campaigns and signage displayed in significant locations at the point of the behaviour, for example in toilets and kitchens were seen as most effective.  

RSPH chief executive Shirley Cramer CBE said: "As 95% of our respondents agreed, handwashing is a public health issue and I urge public health and healthcare organisations to ensure that messages are disseminated as widely as possible."