If you’re like most Americans we surveyed, you aren’t fully confident the people around you are taking appropriate measures to reduce germs during cold and flu season. Fortunately, there are things you can do to make sure you’re doing your part and helping keep yourself and your loved ones safe from those whose habits have more to be desired. 

The “Droplet Spread” 

The major culprit in spreading cold and flu germs is an unappetizing syndrome called “droplet spread.” Tiny particles from the cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air and are deposited on the mouth or nose of people nearby. These droplets can also land on a desk, countertop, doorknob, or other common surface. If you touch that surface, then touch your eyes, mouth, or nose before washing your hands, those germs can invade your body! To make matters worse, some viruses and bacteria can live two hours or longer on many surfaces. 

Take Cover 

When a cough or sneeze shows up, keep those droplets under control. Cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw it away. If there’s no tissue in reach, “give your cough the shoulder.” Lift your shoulder and arm and cough into your upper/arm shoulder. The idea is that people are less likely to touch each other’s shoulders than each other’s hands. Or, cover your mouth or nose with your hands. But no matter what, promptly wash your hands. 

Clean Up 

As a major deterrent to the spread of germs, use soap! When paired with the proper handwashing technique, it’s one of the best ways to protect yourself from cold and flu germs. Here’s how to do it: 

• Wet with warm water and apply soap. 

• Rub hands together vigorously for the amount of time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice. 

• Rinse hands well under warm, running water. 

• Dry hands with a paper towel or air dryer. 

If there’s no soap and water nearby, use an alcohol-based, disposable hand wipe or hand sanitizer. 

Exercise Good Habits 

During cold and flu season, time-honored ways to stay healthy apply! Get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, and eat a balanced diet. These activities can help your immune system better resist the germs that cause illness.