Oregon Public Broadcasting

As a nation we’re always looking for the next, best thing.  But sometimes, the boring old thing -- that your Mom used to harp-on about -- is best.

Hence, as Kristian Foden-Vencil reports, Governor Ted Kulongoski is proclaiming this week: ‘Hand Washing Awareness Week.’

Walk along the aisle at any drug store and you’ll see dozens of new-fangled remedies for colds and tummy bugs – from blasts of vitamins and free-radicals (whatever those are) to cotton swabs – which you’re meant to swirl around the inside of your nose!

They may -- or may not work. But many doctors say one of the best precautions is just to wash your hands.

And not just a quick dip says state epidemiologist, Dr. Emilo Debess --  sing Happy Birthday twice to ensure a full 20 seconds in hot soapy water.

Emilio Debess: “This is just a reminder, I think what our Moms used to tell us about washing our hands certainly holds true in terms of disease protection. And all it takes is a little bit and a little bit of water and you’re set.”

Other old chestnuts emanating from the Governor’s office this flu season include: eat sensibly, get plenty of exercise and give up smoking.