Hand Washing: Your Primary
Defense against Illness

One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from illness is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, which does not require water. This is so important because germs can live on most of the surfaces that we touch all day. If we touch these surfaces and then touch our mouths, noses or eyes, we can introduce germs into our systems, which can result in illness.

Many people believe that you must wash with anti-bacterial soap products, but regular soap and water works just fine. The key is to wash your hands thoroughly and wash them often.

When to Wash

• Before and after eating
• After using the bathroom
• Before putting in or taking out contact lenses
• After handling diapers
• Before caring for a cut or scrape
• After handling or emptying the garbage
• After you have been in contact with someone whom you know is ill
• After you’ve been in an area where sick people may be (example: a physician’s waiting area)
• After you’ve touched food, especially raw meats

Good Hand Washing Technique

1. Wet your hands
2. Apply soap product
3. Rub hands together (fronts and backs!) vigorously for at least 20 seconds
4. Rinse thoroughly with water
5. Dry hands with clean towel, paper towel or air dryer

Simple Tips for Avoiding the Spread of Germs

• Sneeze into your elbow and not your hand
• Minimize or avoid all together hand shaking whenever possible
• Carry a packet of anti-bacterial wipes and clean shopping cart handles before use
• Prevent your child’s use of toys in group play areas whenever possible
• Don’t take “sips” from others’ beverages
• Don’t share silverware with others
• Sanitize hard surfaces often (example: kitchen counters, keyboards, desktops, doorknobs, faucets handles, computer mouses)

You May Be Asked to Wear a Mask

These days, medical providers and medical office staff are being extra cautious about preventing the spread of germs in the medical treatment setting. For this reason, many providers are asking patients who are experiencing flu-like symptoms to wear masks for the duration of their visits. Likewise, providers and staff may also wear a mask when caring for someone is suspected of having the flu.

PLEASE don’t take offense! Wearing a mask is simply a preventative measure aimed at minimizing the spread of influenza. Your cooperation and understanding is much appreciated!

Additional Links:
"Talkin bout the flu" PSA – a music video about flu prevention
Kids' video takes aim at H1N1 flu virus
Regular Hand Washing Makes Tremendous Positive Impact on Family Health