6 Quick Tips for Preventing the Spread of Contagious Illnesses

Now more than ever, people know that they must take contagious illnesses seriously. Even simple, everyday acts such as shaking hands or opening doors can spread an infectious disease. Instead of giving your co-worker the evil eye any time they sneeze, be proactive about your health and the well-being of your family. 

With a few simple actions, you can prevent the spread of contagious illnesses, including colds, the flu and other viruses.  

1. Wash Your Hands

Washing your hands is the best way to avoid catching something contagious. However, when it comes to handwashing, thoroughness is key. Soap and water are your best options, and you should follow these simple steps:

• Wet down your hands.
• Use soap and lather for at least 20 seconds. Try singing a song such as “Happy Birthday” twice or a verse from your favorite song. 
• Scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers and even under your nails. 
• Rinse well with water. 
• Finally, dry those hands with a clean towel or let them air dry. Don’t rub them on your dirty jeans. 

In a pinch, hand sanitizer is the next best thing — just make sure it contains at least 60% alcohol. 

2. Cover Up When Coughing or Sneezing

If you feel a cough or sneeze coming on, don’t just let it go. Grab a tissue and cover your mouth and nose. Then, throw that tissue out right away and wash your hands. Don’t have a tissue on standby? You can also use the crook of your elbow — a technique fondly referred to as the vampire sneeze. 

3. Stop Touching Your Face

Keeping yourself from touching your face is harder than it looks. However, when you’re out and about, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as this could cause germs to enter your body. 

4. Wipe Down Frequently Touched Surfaces

You don’t have to turn into a crazy person, cleaning and disinfecting every surface in your house. However, there are several high traffic areas that you should pay attention to, including doorknobs, phones, cabinet and refrigerator handles, TV remotes and computer keyboards. 

5. Stay Home if You Feel Sick 

We can’t state this any clearer — don’t leave your home if you’re sick. You may also want to isolate yourself from the rest of the people in your house to lessen their chances of catching what you have. If you must go out, wear a face mask to protect those around you. 

6. Try an IV for a Cold or Flu

Staying as healthy as possible is one of the best ways you can help prevent spreading sickness to others. Our IVs have vitamins and minerals that can help ease or shorten the symptoms of an illness. You can use IV therapy from Lone Star IV Medics for symptoms of a cold, flu, or other viruses. Our Myer’s Cocktail IV package is the most popular choice for helping to ease symptoms as it includes a good dose of vitamin C.

Get a boost of essential vitamins and minerals in the comfort of your own home with Lone Star IV Medics’ IVs for the flu, colds and more. Make your appointment today to get started.