How can I prevent spreading or getting germs?
Whether we’re in the midst of pandemic flu or you’re just suffering from an old-fashioned case of the sniffles, take the following steps to prevent spreading or getting germs:
Wash your hands — often
You should do this after a cough or a sneeze, of course, but also throughout the day, especially if you come in contact with sick people. Use warm water if possible, and rub your hands for 20 seconds or more (about the time it takes to say your ABCs or sing “Happy Birthday”) to work up a lather. Rinse all soap off your hands, and then dry them with a clean towel. You can use paper towels to turn faucets or door handles in public restrooms.
No water? You also can use hand sanitizers (usually wipes, liquids or gels) when you can’t wash your hands.
Sneeze and cough like a pro
This sneezing technique gets a failing grade. Germs can spray onto other people, and they also can spread from sneeze-covered hands.
This is more like it. Sneezing into a sleeve makes it easier to stop viruses from spreading.
You’re a considerate person; when you cough and sneeze, you cover your mouth. Well, it’s not as simple as that. If you use your hands to cover your mouth, you get germs on your hands. Then you spread those germs to whatever you touch. Then the people who touch those same items pick up the germs, and on it goes.
Try to cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow, or another part of your arm covered in fabric. This may mean you have to do a bit more laundry, but it’s an effective way to prevent spreading a virus.
No sleeves? Tissues or paper towels work, too, but often you still end up with germs on your hands. If you use tissues, be sure to throw them away and wash your hands immediately.
Keep your space clean
This applies to your personal space (residence hall room, office, home, etc.) but especially to common areas such as shared bathrooms and kitchens. Use disinfectant liquid, spray or wipes on door handles, countertops, sinks, telephones and other surfaces that many people touch. Keep hand wipes or gels handy for when you can’t wash your hands. Also, avoid sharing things that come near a person’s mouth: toothbrushes, forks and spoons, cups, cell phones, etc. Keep kitchen and bathroom surfaces, washcloths, and towels as dry as possible.