Bhubaneswar: With the increase in Swine flu cases and other communicable diseases the importance of keeping oneself clean has gone up.

To make children aware of the importance of washing hands before and after having food, a campaign called Global Handwash Day is observed all over the world on October 27.

The campaign was first launched in Orissa by the Red Cross on October 27, 2008. “The bacterial diseases spread as one does not wash their hands. If one just washes their hand with water the dirt does not go away. So it is essential to use a detergent and wash your hands,” Director, Institute of studies and research Dr. Niranjan Mohanty said.

Several campaigns are being organised all over state to spread awareness and prevent the reach of deadly diseases.