Cold and flu season is once again upon us.  Listed below are some basic guidelines to follow for reducing the spread of germs and staying healthy:

·     Wash your hands frequently.  Handwashing is the most effective way to prevent the spread of germs.  Most infections are spread when the germs get on our hands and then we touch our eyes, nose or mouth.  Wash your hands using warm soap and water, scrubbing vigorously for as long as it takes to recite the alphabet.  If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.  Be sure to wash your hands before eating or preparing food, after using the bathroom or changing a diaper or after sneezing or blowing your nose.

·      Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth because germs are often spread when a person touches something contaminated with germs and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.

·      Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.  Follow the adage, “Cough and sneeze in your sleeve.”

·      Stay home when you are sick, especially if you are running a temperature.  This helps to keep others from getting sick.

·      Avoid crowds, especially when there is a lot of illness circulating.

·     Practice good health habits such as getting plenty of sleep, exercising regularly, managing stress, eating a healthy diet, and drinking plenty of fluids.

·      Get a flu shot.

 For more information on the flu, go to www.cdc.gov/flu.  To watch a video on “Why Flu Vaccination Matters go to www.youtube.com/user/cdcflu.