There is nothing scarier than hearing someone cough who is right next to you. Perhaps you’re at work, inside a classroom, or sitting at the dinner table when you hear someone sneeze. That sneeze symbolizes two things — the spread of germs and the impending doom of sickness. If you’re someone who is constantly around others in close quarters, it’s important to take measures to protect yourself. If you keep your area clean, take the proper preventative measures, and are always on the alert then you can prevent the spread of germs. Here are several ways that you can take charge.
Proper Hand Washing is Key
Washing your hands is one of the best ways that you can prevent the spread of germs. Some basic rules are to wash your hands before you prepare food, before you eat, after coming in contact with someone who is sick, after you sneeze, and after you interact with animals. If you can’t get to a sink, keep a bottle of hand sanitizer with you. Although it’s not as thorough as soap and water, it will do the trick. Hand sanitizer can reduce the number of germs. It’s perfect in an office or home setting because it allows you to constantly fight against the germs all around you.
Keep Disinfecting Wipes Around
If you’re surrounded by people, you’ll want to keep your area clean regardless if others are sick or not. That’s why it’s important to keep some disinfecting wipes, preferably the ones with bleach, at your desk or office. That way, you can constantly wipe down the area around you. This is important to do if someone else comes into your space, touches your things, or coughs while they’re by you. These wipes are also great for wiping off your property. Germs can linger on places such as your laptop or your cellphone. You should wipe those down whenever possible, especially if they’re items that you frequently use.
Avoid Handshakes, Hugs When Someone is Sick
Being sick in the same house can propose a variety of challenges including how to prevent the spread of germs. You should limit your physical contact with those who are sick. It doesn’t matter if it’s a classmate, student, coworker, or family member. Limiting your contact means that germs are less likely to transfer to you. If you hear someone coughing or sneezing, you should do your best to stay away. If you have to be near someone who is sick, make sure you’re washing your hands after.
Get Some Fresh Air Whenever Possible
The spreading of germs is inevitable when your family member sick. You’ll just have to do what you can to make sure that you don’t get sick from their germs. On top of proper handwashing and limiting contact with those who are sick, you’ll want to take frequent breaks whenever possible. Get outside and get some fresh air whenever you can. Not only are you getting a break from the germs, but the natural sunlight will also boost your immune system.
