The main way illnesses like colds and flu are spread is person to person through respiratory droplets of coughs and sneezes. This can happen when droplets of an infected person move through the air and are deposited on the mouth or nose of people nearby. Sometimes germs also can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets on a hard surface and then touches his/ her eyes, mouth or nose before washing his/her hands. We know that some viruses and bacteria can live two hours or longer on surfaces such as cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks.

Flu symptoms may not show up for a day or so. A person could pass the flu to others without even knowing it.  Avoid those invisible flu germs! Try to stay at least three feet away from a person who is coughing or sneezing. Don't touch your eyes, nose or mouth. Wash your hands often to prevent any germs on your hands from entering your body.

• try to stay at least 3 feet away from other people
• cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, then throw the tissue away
• cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve if you have no tissue (not your hand)
• always wash your hands immediately afterwards

• after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose
• after using the restroom
• before and after preparing food
• before eating
• before and after changing diapers
• after touching an animal or its waste
• after doing chores, such as handling garbage or doing yardwork
• before and after caring for someone who is sick or hurt

Remember to wash your hands for at least twenty seconds.  If you need a timer,  imagine singing "Happy Birthday" two times.  If you do not have soap and water nearby, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol based).

• toothbrushes
• drinking cups or straws
• makeup
• eating utensils
• washcloths or towels