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Written by August Domingo
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Thursday, 25 June 2009 |
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Protect Yourself and Others
All strains of influenza can be dangerous; however, good infection prevention measures can help protect you and others if this virus begins to spread rapidly.
* Wash your hands often and thoroughly in warm, soapy water or use hand sanitizer
* Cough and sneeze in your arm, not your hand
* Keep common surfaces and items clean and disinfected
* Stay home if you’re sick, unless directed to seek medical care
Prevent H1N1 flu virus (human swine flu) with frequent handwashing
Handwashing, when done correctly, is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of communicable diseases. Good handwashing technique is easy to learn and can significantly reduce the spread of infectious diseases among both children and adults.
More information on how to wash your hands. How to wash your hands - 7 tips
1. Remove all rings and wet your hands with warm running water.
2. Put a smal l amount of liquid soap in the palm of one hand. Bar soaps are not as hygienic as liquid soaps because they stay moist and attract germs. If a bar soap is the only option it should be stored on a rack so that the bar doesn't sit in water.
3. Rub your hands together for 20 seconds so you produce lather. Make sure you scrub between your fingers, under your fingernails and the backs of your hands.
4. Rinse your hands well with clean running water for at least 10 seconds. Try not to handle the faucets once your hands are clean. Use a paper towel to turn off the water.
5. Dry your hands with a single use paper towel. If you use a hand towel be sure to change it daily. During cold and flu season you may want to give each family member his or her own hand towel.
6. Use hand lotion to put moisture back into your skin if your hands are dry.
7. Model good handwashing technique to your children. Have them sing a song like Twinkle Twinkle Little Star while rubbing their hands together to teach them the amount of time it takes to clean their hands properly.Cover your cough and sneeze
Sneeze and cough into your elbow or sleeve or use a tissue. After wiping or blowing your nose with a tissue, throw away the tissue and wash your hands. Keep your fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth
Stay at home and avoid crowds when sick
If you are sick, avoid going to work and being in large crowds as you can spread influenza easily to others. You should also visit those who are sick only if necessary.
Keep common surfaces clean
Keep personal items separate if a household member is sick. Use a disinfectant to clean surfaces around a person who is sick with the influenza. Do not share personal items or drinks.
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