20 Tips to Stay (sort of) Germ-Free
Oct 4th, 2011
Except for a few inflamed mosquito bites, our family was remarkably healthy all summer long. Now that the kids are back in school I am terrified of the impending sickness that inevitably follows in the weeks after school begins. As all of you know, once one gets sick, each member of the family usually gets taken down. Nothing is worse then being a sick mama trying to take care of sick kids. My goal this year is to avoid illness all together. A little lofty? Yes, but I’m sure as hell going to try.
Follow these tips to stay healthy and out of the doctor’s office!
- Wash your hands with soap and water after you sneeze, cough, or use the bathroom. Count to 20 or sing a couple of rounds of Row, Row, Row Your Boat while you scrub!
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren’t available.
- Use a tissue when you need to sneeze or cough. Throw your tissues in the trash—don’t attempt a Guinness World Record for the biggest pile of dirty tissues!
- If you can’t stifle a cough or sneeze in a tissue quickly enough, sneeze into the crook of your elbow.
- Take a multi-vitamin every day.
- Don’t share water bottles or drinks. Your friend might not know he or she is sick and spread germs to you.
- Don’t share your hair brush or hat. Little creatures like head lice could be hiding out and could be passed on from one person to another.
- Stay home from school, sports practice, and parties if you feel sick or have a fever.
- Wash your dishes with detergent and very warm water to kill germs.
- Stay away from family gatherings and reunions if you are sick or if one of your family members is sick. Grandma and Grandpa and younger cousins may have a stronger reaction to the illness than you do.
- Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. A healthy diet can help boost your immune system and help you fight off illnesses before they make you sick!
- Sleep eight or more hours every night. A strong body will help you fend off infections.
- Wash your hands after you high five, fist bump or shake someone’s hand.
- Don’t double dip into the salsa or dip.
- Get some fresh air and exercise every day. Outside air often carries fewer germs than stagnant indoor air.
- Avoid crowded places like movie theaters and shopping malls if the flu has been reported in your town.
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. These areas are germ spreaders.
- Don’t share ear buds with friends. They can harbor loads of germs.
- Blow kisses to your sick friends and family instead of kisses and hugs.
- Get a flu shot if your doctor or school recommends it.
*Good Luck, mamas!*
Source & Image: nationalgeographic.com
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Written by Lea Barlow • Leave a comment
