’Tis the Season for Germs

Everything we come in contact with has germs, and during the busy Holidays it’s easy to forget the most basic preventative health measures – like handwashing.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that hand-washing should last at least 20 seconds. Hum “Happy Birthday” two times while scrubbing, and that should give you about 20 seconds. Friction helps lift the microbes from your skin and microbes are present on all surfaces of the hands, particularly under the nails. Leaving a nail brush by your sink is a helpful reminder to clean under your nails.

Be sure to lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers (easily overlooked) and under your nails. If you are in a public restroom and paper towels are available, use one to open the door.

Keeping an alcohol-based, pump-type hand sanitizer in your car or golf cart is important this time of year. After running those errands, get in the habit of using hand sanitizer as soon as you get back in the car or cart. Remember, you are touching doorknobs, handrails, elevator buttons, escalator rails and even merchandise that has been touched by unknown others.

Are you handing your cell phone to a friend to see those cute grandchildren or pet photos? It’s a good idea to use a sanitizing wipe on your phone from time to time. If you have a bumper case on your phone, you can remove it and give it a good soap-and-water wash.

Viruses are on the rise this month. If you haven’t had your vaccines yet, it’s not too late.

Remember to check the Visiting Specialists calendar and upcoming events in the Annual Events menus!