Hand Washing Reduces Risk of Getting Sick

Hands should always be washed after going to the bathroom, changing a diaper, before and after eating, when preparing food -- especially raw meats, and after touching public surfaces.

In order to kill enough germs, hands must be lathered up and rubbed together under running water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren't available, hands can be cleaned using an alcohol based hand sanitizer.

Simple tips to help protect yourself and your family:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick and isolate sick family members if possible.
• Stay home from school, work and other public places when you are sick to avoid infecting others.
• When you sneeze or cough, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your arm and sleeve.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth " areas where germs can enter the body.
• Get a flu shot every year, protect yourself, protect your loved ones.

"By washing your hands and making these healthy practices a part of your daily life, you can help protect yourself and your family from getting the flu, colds and other common illnesses," says Dr. Long.