Explain why regularly washing hands with soap and water can help to reduce the spread of communicable diseases.

Pathogens can be present on the surface of the skin and hands.

When a person touches a contaminated surface or another person, the pathogens can be transferred from the hands to that person or to the mouth, eyes or nose by direct or indirect contact.

Soap contains surfactants that surround and lift the pathogens from the skin, allowing them to be rinsed away with water. The mechanical action of rubbing also helps to remove the microorganisms.

With fewer or no pathogens left on the hands, the chance of transferring them to another host is greatly reduced, lowering the risk of infection.