ATLANTA - In today??s climate of flu and communicable disease scares, hygiene and wellness education is more imperative than ever. According to a 2009 study by the Soap and Detergent Association, 39 percent of people seldom wash their hands after coughing and sneezing.

Because Georgia-Pacific Professional believes everyone should wash their hands with soap and dry them with a paper towel, the company is launching Spread Wellness, a campaign aimed at teaching people proper techniques for washing and drying hands when away from home. The campaign also encourages everyone to be a Spread Wellness ambassador by sharing the importance of hand hygiene practices wherever they go.

The Spread Wellness website is a resource center that provides links, tips, education materials, news and tools to share with those around them. The website also offers an interactive hygiene poll and downloadable signs that promote hand washing. Additionally, visitors can sign up to be a Wellness Ambassador and receive a welcome kit with a Spread Wellness wristband.

"With the easy transfer of germs and diseases, we all need to be more aware of our surroundings," said Bill Sleeper, president of Georgia-Pacific Professional. "We need to practice good hygiene habits ourselves and share these tips with those we interact with. This campaign is about educating the public on how to use the best hand washing practices to stay healthy and potentially take steps to help improve cleanliness and wellness wherever they go."

Through the Spread Wellness website, consumers and facility managers are provided a way to take action to further promote hygiene away from home. Beyond hand washing materials, consumers can request enMotion Automated Touchless Towel Dispensers in places they go and where they work, and facility managers can learn more about leasing enMotion Automated Touchless Towel Dispensers for their facilities.

Learn more about Spread Wellness on Facebook and Twitter @GPProfessional.