Control Viruses–Wash Your Hands

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2009

Another school year is underway, and health officials are concerned about the spread of the H1N1 Virus, also known as Swine Flu. One of the easiest ways to help control the spread of flu and other viruses is hand washing, says Shirley Camp, University of Illinois Extension nutrition and wellness educator.

Most people rely on "random" hand washing or washing when they remember to. But, making an effort to wash your hands whenever you have come into contact with a surface that harbors germs is one way to help combat colds, flu and viruses.

Hands should be washed for 20 seconds using soap and hot water. Scrub them well. If you need a timer, simply sing the "Happy Birthday" song twice in your head! Rinse your hands well, and then dry them with a paper towel. Use the towel to turn off the faucet and open the bathroom door.

The Center for Disease Control advises us to wash their hands at these times:

• Before eating
• Before, during and after handling or preparing food
• After contact with blood or body fluids
• After changing a diaper
• After using the restroom
• After handling animals, their toys, leashes or waste
• After touching something that could be contaminated—trash cans, cleaning cloth, etc.
• Before dressing a wound, giving medicine or inserting contact lenses
• More often when someone in the house is sick
• Whenever they look dirty

Each of us has a responsibility to help control the spread of viruses. If you feel sick, contact your physician. Individuals who suspect they have the flu should not report to work or school. Camp recommends that you call your physician and follow their direction.