Global Handwashing Day is marked each year on 15 October. Its purpose is to encourage the habit of washing hands and, through that simple practice, to raise the standard of public health. Because clean hands help stop the spread of germs from person to person, the day is used by health agencies, schools and communities to spread awareness about hand hygiene. The campaign theme for 2026 is "Be a Handwashing Hero." The theme invites every individual to take personal responsibility for regular handwashing and to set an example for others. Remember the date (15 October) and the 2026 theme for exam questions on important days.