How To Fight Household Germs

Cough and sneeze into a tissue or, in a pinch, your sleeve in the crook of your elbow. Viruses live in the saliva and mucus in our noses and throats. When you cough into your hands, the virus has a chance to spread to everything you touch.

Get your shots. Immunizations are the first line of defense against many viruses, including flu and pneumonia, especially important for infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.

Keep your home, office, and car clean. Regularly clean all surfaces, especially things that get touched a lot, with a household cleaner or a spray bottle of bleach and water, which eradicates a range of bacteria, viruses, and mold.

If it is possible, avoid people who are actively sick and don’t share their food, pillows or towels. When caring for young children who are ill, limit your exposure.

Avoid places where many people are in close quarters, allowing illness to spread easily, like schools, offices, and airplanes. And if you happen to be sick, have the courtesy to stay home so others can steer clear!

Stay healthy. Eat right, get plenty of vitamin C, exercise, and rest, and you will be much less likely to fall prey to illnesses caused by germs.