How to Avoid the Flu Virus
The big push for flu shots seems like ages ago, doesn’t it? But February is actually a prime time to contract the flu.
Fortunately, there are ways you can help yourself avoid contracting the flu.
- When you go to a restaurant, think twice about touching the menu if you are certain what you want. Menus are rarely cleaned and are handled by many – some of whom have sneezed right on menu item number three! Also, be sure your menu does not touch your silverware or plate.
- Remember that purses and wallets are breeding grounds for bacteria. Ladies, never place your handbags on counters or tables. Wallets are kept at body temperature when kept in pockets. If the surface of your wallet or purse can be cleaned, occasionally clean them with disinfectant.
- If you work with money, wash your hands often and avoid touching your face.
- Pumping gas? So did about ten people before you that had just finished wiping their noses with their hands. Keep antibacterial hand cleaner in your car and use it as soon as you finish pumping gas.
- Think about those salt and pepper shakers in your kitchen, as well as refrigerator, cabinet, microwave and oven handles. Clean them with a water and bleach solution weekly. Don’t forget the coffee pot handle!
- Clean your remote controls with alcohol and q-tips to keep the germs at bay.
- Elevator buttons and escalator hand rails are covered in bacteria. Push buttons with your keys and avoid holding on to the rail if possible.
- There are 21,000 germs per square inch on your desk at work. This does not include your phone and keyboard. Wipe down your desk, phone, cell phone and keyboard weekly with antibacterial cleaner.
- If you are making a copy at work, bring a pencil to use for pushing buttons.
- Shopping carts. Let’s just say “ew.” I always bring some antibacterial hand gel on my shopping trips, for before and after.
- Have your children wash their hands after school.
Finally, remember to wash your hands often. You should teach your children to sing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” while washing, which will ensure they are at the sink long enough to really get clean. And while your at it, humming that same tune might not be so bad for yourself, either!
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