Flu Season

With the hopes of cooler weather, also comes the threat of the flu. This year, especially with the Swine Flu, it’s vital to do what you can to stay healthy. One easy tip – wash your hands regularly. Here’s some information from the Mayo Clinic:

Hand washing is a simple habit, something most people do without thinking. Yet hand washing, when done properly, is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick. This simple habit requires only soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer — a cleanser that doesn't require water.

The Dangers of Not Washing Your Hands:

Infectious Diseases (Common Cold, Flu, Gastrointestinal Disorders like Diarrhea)
Food Related Illnesses (Salmonella, E. Coli Infection)


Proper Handwashing with Soap and Water

Wet your hands with warm, running water and apply liquid soap or use clean bar soap.
Lather well.
Rub your hands vigorously together for at least 15-20 seconds.
Scrub all surfaces, including the backs of your hands, wrists, between your fingers and under your fingernails.
Rinse well.
Dry your hands with a clean or disposable towel.
Use a towel to turn off the faucet.


Alcohol-based hand sanitizers — which don't require water — are an excellent alternative to hand washing, particularly when soap and water aren't available. They're actually more effective than soap and water in killing bacteria and viruses that cause disease. Not all hand sanitizers are created equal, though. Some "waterless" hand sanitizers don't contain alcohol. Use only the alcohol-based products. The CDC recommends choosing products that contain at least 60 percent alcohol.


When should you wash your hands?

After using the toilet
After changing a diaper
After touching animals or animal waste
Before preparing food, especially before and immediately after handling raw meat, poultry or fish
Before eating
After blowing your nose
After coughing or sneezing into your hands
Before and after treating wounds or cuts
Before and after touching a sick or injured person
After handling garbage
Before inserting or removing Contact Lenses
When using public restrooms


Let’s stay healthy! For more information, check out this link: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hand-washing/HQ00407