7.3 Hygiene and Preventing the Spread of Germs

Notes

Hygiene is the set of habits that keep you clean and healthy.

• Handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent illness. Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the bathroom, coughing or touching shared surfaces.
• Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol when soap isn't available (not on very dirty hands).
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands.
• Do not share toothbrushes, towels, razors, water bottles or utensils.
• Keep wounds clean and covered. Brush teeth twice a day and floss daily.
• Daily shower, clean clothes and clean surfaces reduce germs.
• Stay up to date on vaccines.