Background. Pre-school children are at a higher risk to acquireinfectious diseases such as hand, foot and mouth disease due to their immatureimmune system. Good hand hygiene prevents transmission of infectious diseases.This study aimed to determine the knowledge and practices of hand hygiene amongpre-schoolers. Methods. In this prospective, multi-centerstudy, the pre-schools were selected according to the selection criteria. Aquestionnaire consisting of socio-demographics, knowledge and practices of handhygiene were administered via face-to-face interview during the pre- andpost-intervention period. A total of 435 pre-schoolers aged 5 and 6 years oldfrom 2 pre-schools within Klang Valley, School P (test group) and School C(control group) were involved in this study. The test group was provided withcomprehensive hand hygiene education including video on proper handwashingtechnique during the 2 months intervention period, whereas the control group didnot receive any form of intervention. The data were statistically analyzed usingdescriptive analysis and independent t-test.Results. Majority of pre-schoolers gained knowledge ofhandwashing from their parents. However, only 63% demonstrated good handwashingtechnique. Test group were significantly better (P < 0.05)in handwashing technique and hand hygiene routine score.Conclusion. A comprehensive hand hygiene education programshould include proper handwashing facilities, resources, and awareness of thecare-givers in instilling and sustaining good hand hygiene behavior.
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