I believe for proper hand hygiene we should wash our hands for a minimum of 30 seconds. This is because washing hands for at least 20–30 seconds ensures soap has enough time to break down stubborn grease and oils that trap bacteria, viruses, and dirt. It takes time to scrub all surfaces between fingers and under nails to remove any germs that cause sickness.
When sick it is even more important to wash your hands for a long period of time or at least 30 seconds because there is a long lasting bacteria on your hands from all the germs received when touching objects around you.
Washing your hands can also help and or stop viruses and bacteria on your hands from entering your body. Examples are through your eyes by rubbing them when not having clean hands and other areas such as your nose and mouth.
