BOISE, Idaho, July 21 (UPI) -- Washing hands for 20 seconds with attention to fingernails will help prevent and control infections, the author of "Infection Control for Dummies" said.

"Infection Control for Dummies" is a free 48-page, pocket-size handbook that helps consumers and environmental service professionals identify basic microorganisms, understand infection transmission, use cleaning techniques to keep infection at bay and understand labels and product claims.

J. Darrel Hicks, writer of the handbook, director of environmental services at St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield, Mo., said the booklet provides practical tips for fighting bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes.

Hicks, president of the International Executive Housekeepers Association, suggests:

-- Cleaning is always the first and best line of defense, since removal of pathogens is better and less toxic than killing them. Also, many disinfectants -- including bleach -- do not work effectively until the surface is free from organic soil or blood.