Many infectious diseases can be prevented through simple and inexpensive methods. Use these tips to prevent the spread of infectious disease.
Wash your hands often
Always
wash your hands before, during and after preparing food, before eating, after using the bathroom or changing diapers, and after handling animals or animal waste.
Cover your cough
Stop the spread of germs that make you and others sick by covering your cough. If you don't have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve. After coughing or sneezing, always clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or other personal items.
Stay home if you are sick
When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick. Stay home from work, school, and social gatherings.
Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces
Cleaning with soap and water removes dirt and most germs. Using a disinfectant kills additional germs. It is important to thoroughly clean areas where germs are likely to be transmitted, such as the kitchen and bathroom.
Get immunized
Children, adolescents and adults need
immunizations. Make sure the members of your family get the right vaccines at the right time. Keep immunization records for the whole family.
Use antibiotics properly
Unnecessary antibiotics can be harmful and, if misused, can cause bacteria to become resistant to treatment. Antibiotics don’t work against viruses like colds and flu. Use antibiotics exactly as prescribed by your provider.