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Glossary

Transient skin flora

Transient or temporary skin flora refers to the microorganisms that transiently colonise the skin. This includes bacteria, fungi and viruses, which reach the hands, for example, by direct skin-to-skin contact or indirectly via objects. Hygienic hand disinfection primarily aims at deactivating the microorganisms of the transient flora.

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DISINFACTS

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International Campaign Days

Campaign days raise awareness of the importance of cleaning and disinfecting hands and surfaces in the health sector, addressing sepsis and antibiotic resistance. Find all information about these annual events here.

International campaign day: World Hand Hygiene Day on 5 May 2025

Two hands touching. Other hands in the background.

On May 5, 2025, as every year, the WHO is reminding people of the importance of hand hygiene in the healthcare sector and beyond.