The NHS is continuing to spread the vital message that effective handwashing is one of the most important strategies for fighting coronavirus.

To properly ensure that your hands are washed, the NHS is encouraging everyone to follow these steps. First, make sure that hands are washed for at least 20 seconds - an often quoted guide for this is to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice. Make sure hands are wet with water. Then apply enough soap to cover the hands. Rub the hands together.

Next, use one hand to rub the back of the other hand, and clear in between each finger. Repeat this motion with the opposite hand. Then rub both hands together, and clean in between the fingers.

Rub the backs of the fingers against the palms of the hands, and do the same with each thumb. Rub the tips of the fingers on the palm of the opposite hand. Do this with both hands. Rinse hands with water, then dry hands completely with a disposable towel.

Finally, use the disposable towel to turn off the tap. If soap and water is not available, use an alcohol-based hand wash.

Hands should be washed before handling food, after blowing one’s nose, sneezing, coughing, touching pets and after using the toilet or changing a nappy.