Avoid Catching a Cold, the Flu, or the Superbug…

It’s that time of year again–people are sniffling and sneezing, calling in sick to work, or worse, coming in sick to work. Chances are pretty good you’ll be exposed to cold and flu germs sometime soon.

As if that wasn’t enough to worry about, there’s also a different kind of illness making headlines right now–MSRA, or the drug-resistant strain of Staphylococcus–more commonly known as a staph infection or the “Superbug”. It’s showing up in schools across the country, but officials say it isn’t easily spread. There are simple precautions you can take to lower the risk of infection.

The best way to prevent sickness or infection (including the Superbug) is to wash your hands… A LOT. In the bathroom, in the kitchen, after class, in the locker room, before you touch your eyes or nose… at least several times a day. Treat handwashing like it’s a survivor skill.

Other ways to avoid getting sick this season:

1. Get a flu shot.
2. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
3. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.
4. Take a multi-vitamin daily.
5. Get plenty of sleep.
6. Eat yogurt. Probiotics keep your immune system healthy and help rid your body of bacteria.
7. Disinfect your desk at work by wiping down keyboard, phone, and all surfaces.
8. Don’t share personal items with others (towels, glasses, make up, pens, pencils).
9. Avoid anyone who is sneezing, coughing, or feeling sick.
10. Exercise. A strong body is better equipped to fight germs.

If you do all these things and still get sick (it can happen), be sure to stay home and avoid passing your illness on to others.

Don’t make the same mistakes this guy did…

(old Disney educational video… a little long, but entertaining)