It’s the time of year when it seems that everyone is either starting to feel symptoms of illness, is already sick and out for the count, or on the mend after a nasty cold, flu, or strep. It may seem impossible to avoid those nasty viruses and germs, but there are some simple steps that you and your family can take to help prevent getting sick.
Infections are typically transmitted in three ways.
CONTACT - This is where you come in direct contact with bodily fluids of the infected person. Think of the norovirus ("throw & go"). Frequent hand washing with soap and water is very effective. If soap and water is not available, antibacterial sanitizers are useful too in a pinch. If possible, have the sick person use a separate bathroom and be sure to clean and disinfect the bathroom and doorknobs prior to other family members using it.
DROPLET - This is where the infection is spread most commonly through a sneeze or cough. Think of the flu or strep. Encourage kids to cough or sneeze into a tissue or into their sleeve if a tissue is not available. Frequent hand washing with soap and water is very effective. Clean and disinfect common areas in the house.
AIRBORNE - This is where the infection is spread when someone breathes it in through the air. Think TB or chickenpox. Respiratory protection such as facemasks are most effective.
So what is the easiest way to stay healthy this winter?
Wash your hands! And wash them a lot!
But what if you or the kids still end up sick?
Be sure to have these staples on hand: acetaminophen to reduce fevers, over the counter flu and cold medicine to treat the particular symptoms, tissues, and cough lozenges.
Drink lots of water and juice and get as much rest as possible. If belly issues are involved, remember the BRATT diet until the symptoms pass - bananas, rice, apple(sauce), tea and toast.
Here’s to a healthier season!
Infections are typically transmitted in three ways.
CONTACT - This is where you come in direct contact with bodily fluids of the infected person. Think of the norovirus ("throw & go"). Frequent hand washing with soap and water is very effective. If soap and water is not available, antibacterial sanitizers are useful too in a pinch. If possible, have the sick person use a separate bathroom and be sure to clean and disinfect the bathroom and doorknobs prior to other family members using it.
DROPLET - This is where the infection is spread most commonly through a sneeze or cough. Think of the flu or strep. Encourage kids to cough or sneeze into a tissue or into their sleeve if a tissue is not available. Frequent hand washing with soap and water is very effective. Clean and disinfect common areas in the house.
AIRBORNE - This is where the infection is spread when someone breathes it in through the air. Think TB or chickenpox. Respiratory protection such as facemasks are most effective.
So what is the easiest way to stay healthy this winter?
Wash your hands! And wash them a lot!
But what if you or the kids still end up sick?
Be sure to have these staples on hand: acetaminophen to reduce fevers, over the counter flu and cold medicine to treat the particular symptoms, tissues, and cough lozenges.
Drink lots of water and juice and get as much rest as possible. If belly issues are involved, remember the BRATT diet until the symptoms pass - bananas, rice, apple(sauce), tea and toast.
Here’s to a healthier season!
