- (AP) -- Careful hygiene can help people avoid catching
the flu or other infectious diseases, or spreading germs to others.
-
- Some tips:
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- * Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, especially
after shaking hands with someone or touching anything dirty, including
doorknobs, telephones, automated teller machines, elevator buttons and
anything in public restrooms. Scrub with soap and hot water for at least
30 seconds; try teaching children to sing a song while washing so they
do it long enough.
-
- * Keep disposable tissues handy and use one to cover
your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing to prevent spreading germs.
Throw out tissues immediately, and don't use handkerchiefs.
-
- * Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, because germs
on your hand can infect you.
-
- * Stay home from work, school and other activities when
you are sick.
-
- * Avoid close contact with anyone who appears ill; don't
shake hands or kiss them. If caring for a sick person, wash your hands
frequently and keep the area around them clean.
-
- * Clean bathrooms, kitchens and other areas that accumulate
germs as frequently as possible.
-
- * Avoid sharing food, eating utensils, drinking glasses,
pens and pencils, towels and other personal items. At the office, senior
centers and day-care centers, use disposable utensils and cups.
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- * Don't reuse or share bottles of water.
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- Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
physician and nutritionist interviews
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be printed or distributed for anything except personal use.
-
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CA 95852 Phone: (916) 321-1000
-
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