Find out how to keep the UMGC community germ-free and healthy.
These tips can help you learn what to watch out for to prevent the spread of germs at work.
How Germs Spread
Illnesses such as the flu (influenza) and colds are caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu or cold usually spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
How to Help Stop the Spread of Germs
As a best practice for overall health in cold and influenza season, the CDC recommends that individuals receive the influenza vaccination and engage in everyday, preventative measures to prevent the spread of germs and avoid illness, such as:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- Avoid touching eyes, mouth and nose with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick.
- Stay home when you are sick. The CDC recommends that individuals remain home for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever or signs of a fever (i.e., chills, feeling warm, flushed appearance).
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately discard the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Take any anti-viral medication prescribed to you as instructed.
Learn how to prevent illness at work with tips from the Center for Disease Control.