While getting sick isn’t fun for anyone, avoiding infections for someone with health concerns is especially important. Some infections cannot be avoided but many can. Here are some tips to help:
Wash your hands.
- Wash your hands often. You should wash before and after preparing and eating foods, after using the restroom, after being in a crowd and after you sneeze or cough.
- Use the proper technique to wash. You should wet your hands and then apply soap. Rub your hands together to make a lather and be sure to get all parts; between the fingers, back of the hand, and under the nails. Then rinse well and dry.
- Wash a little longer. You should continue to lather for at least 20 seconds. Try singing “Happy Birthday” twice while washing.
Use hand sanitizers if you are unable to wash your hands.
- Hand Sanitizers reduce the number of germs on your hands quickly, but they are not effective against all germs or if your hands are visibly dirty.
Train yourself not to touch your face, nose, or eyes.
- Touching your face, nose or eyes can introduce germs to the inside of your body.
Avoid others who are sick.
- Ask others to not visit if they are sick. If you have to be around someone who is ill, wear a face mask.
Stay hydrated.
- Drinking plenty of fluid helps your body fight infection. It also keeps your mucus thin and easy to eliminate.
Keep your environment clean.
- Many germs can live on surfaces for an extended amount of time.
- A clean environment is especially important if you use any type of medical equipment. You should clean the equipment according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Avoid unnecessary crowds.
- Try to run your errands (Shopping, Doctor Visits, etc.) at less busy times.
Treat infections as soon as possible.
- Call your physician if you feel you are getting ill. Many times you can be treated before the infection progress to a serious state.
Be Smart.
- Sometimes just being aware helps. Don’t limit yourself to the extreme but do take precautions.
