[header] How to lower your risk of developing viral hepatitis [title] Wash your hands often. [step] Hand washing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to avoid getting hepatitis. The steps to effective hand washing are : [substeps] Wet your hand with clean water. 
Apply soap to your hands and work up a generous lather. Scrub your palms, the back of your palms, each finger, in between all your fingers, your fingertips, and your fingernails for at least 40 seconds.