As the cold, rainy, and snowy weather approaches our area, the number of infections also tends to increase. There are some very simple ways to protect you from picking up common bacterial and viral conditions. Washing your hands will help to remove the bad germs. When we touch objects like door knobs and subway hand rails, we pick up the germs left on them. They can be transferred into the body by rubbing your eye or touching food that we eat.
How to Wash Your Hands to Protect from Germs & Diseases
- Wet your hands with clean warm or cold running water and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
Clean Your Hands with Hand Sanitizer
If you do not have access to a sink to wash your hands then hand sanitizer can also help to reduce the number of germs on your hands.
Other Ways to Prevent the Spread of Infectious Diseases
If you are working or living with someone who is sick, remember:
- Avoid close contact.
- Stay home when you are sick to help prevent spreading your illness to others.
- Cover your mouth and nose.
- Clean your hands.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Practice other good health habits such as cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, drinking plenty of fluids, and managing your stress.
The winter can be a magical time of the year so practice healthy habits so you can enjoy the changing of the seasons!
