Healthy Habits Help Reduce the Spread of Germs

Most people don't realize how many germs, viruses, and bacteria they encounter each day. While there is no way to prevent or cure the common cold or flu, you can help reduce the likelihood of getting sick by limiting the transmission of germs that may cause infection.

Keep Your Hands Clean

Wash hands frequently or carry alcohol-based hand sanitizing gels or wipes to avoid spread of cold and flu viruses.

Cover Your Cough

Don't cough or sneeze into your hands. Instead, turn away from others and cough or sneeze into your sleeve or a disposable tissue.

Don't Share Personal Items

To help avoid cross-infection and cross-contamination, don't share pens, cups, and thermometers.

Be Conscious of Common Areas

Some cold and flu viruses can live on surfaces like tables, doorknobs, and desks for more than two hours. If you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth before washing your hands, you may spread germs.

Stock Up on Key Items

Keep a supply of hand-sanitizing gels and wipes, masks, gloves, and a thermometer for each member of the family. Nexcare™ Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer kills up to 98% percent of common household germs and is perfect for on-the-go protection.

Slow Down

Make sure to get enough sleep, and remember to relax. You're more likely to get sick when stressed out.

Stay Home if You're Sick

Going to work or school while you're sick exposes other people to your cold or flu viruses. You need rest in order to get well.

The Cold Facts

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Americans catch approximately 1 billion colds each year
• Flu causes an estimated 36,000 deaths and 200,000+ hospitalizations annually
• Nearly 22 million school days are lost each year to the common cold
• Healthy adults can spread the flu virus a day before flu symptoms appear and up to 7 days after becoming sick
• Viruses can live for more than 2 hours on tables, doorknobs, desks, and other surfaces

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