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Project objectives include: 1. Enhance awareness of the importance of hand washing using science based education for youth,adults, and older Americans preparing food in the home. 2. Improve effectiveness and frequency of hand washing reaching a diverse audience in rural and urban settings including children, adults, senior citizens, and at-risk population groups. 3. Modify attitudes, enhance personal motivation, and facilitate behavior change for hand washing. 4. Generate a data/research base to support future study and evaluate effectiveness of hand washing education programs related to behavior change, attitudes, and personal motivation.
Our program is multi-faceted and integrated with education, research, and evaluation with a special research focus on finding answers to the critical question of why people fail to practice effective hand washing behaviors. Education and extension activities will be conducted in schools, fairs, and community events along with the development and implementation of effective evaluation. Outreach and marketing activities will result in local program sustainability. The focal focal point of the Germ City Hand Washing Program is a large, lightproof tunnel constructed of non-toxic materials. It is fully wheelchair accessible. After applying a special hand lotion with a pigment that is UV light sensitive, participants traverse the black-lighted tunnel. They are able to see "pretend" germs on their hands. After hand washing, participants revisit the tunnel assessing their effectiveness. Immediately, they are able to see whether they have or have not practiced effective hand washing. "Germ City" offers a unique method of reinforcing awareness of health benefits while allowing participants to practice behaviors that work and receive immediate feedback.