To prevent infection, it is important to take a few simple steps to reduce your risk of exposure to disease-causing agents. Here are some tips to help protect yourself and others:
1. Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer - This is the single most effective way to reduce the spread of infection. Wash your hands after using the bathroom, before and after preparing food, after blowing your nose, sneezing, or coughing, and after coming in contact with anyone who is sick.
2. Avoid close contact with people who are sick - Whenever possible, try to maintain a distance of at least six feet from people who are ill.
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands - This is a common way for germs to enter your body.
4. Disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces - Germs can live on surfaces for several hours. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, countertops, and faucet handles, at least once a day.
5. Avoid contact with animals and animal waste - This is especially important if you have a weakened immune system, as animals can carry a variety of germs.
6. Stay home when you are sick - This will help prevent the spread of infection to others.
7. Get vaccinated - Vaccines can help protect against a variety of infectious diseases.
By following these simple steps, you can reduce your risk of becoming infected and help protect yourself and others from the spread of infection.