The simplest way to prevent transmission of illness is by washing your hands! It is reported that children, kindergarten through 12th grade, lose 38 million school days annually due to the flu virus. Sadly, another 22 million school days are lost due to colds. So here is a refresher on how to handle cold and flu season:
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Avoid close contact with those who are sick.
- When coughing or sneezing, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve (nose into bend of elbow).
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Use an alcohol based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not accessible.
- Clean shared areas and fixtures frequently with a disinfectant to avoid spreading illness.
- Avoid touching your face with your hands as germs can spread easily into your mouth, nose and eyes.
Schools have become more proactive in addressing flu outbreaks. Do your part by helping to prevent the spread of the flu this year by adhering to the good health practices as suggested by the CDC. Good hand washing practices is one of the most important practices we can master to keep illnesses at bay.
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