Good hygiene can help during cold, flu season

Anyone who was unable to get a flu shot this season still can prevent or reduce the impact of illness by following simple guidelines for prevention and treatment.

Infection control professionals at Mills-Peninsula remind older adults to get back to basics: Drink plenty of fluids, get lots of rest and eat right.

"And Mom was right: 'Wash your hands,' and 'cover your cough,'" Jeanne Linquist, M.D., director of Infection Control, said. "These two simple rules also will go a long way in helping most people stay healthy all year long.

"Good and frequent hand washing is the most important activity everyone can do to prevent illnesses."

Centers for Disease Control recommend vigorous hand washing covering all surfaces and under nails with soap and warm water for at least 15 seconds. That's long enough to sing "Happy Birthday" twice. If this isn't done, micro-organisms can be transmitted to the mouth, eyes, food or to other people, leading to illness.

Dr. Linquist recommends washing hands before and after eating. It's also recommended after toileting, putting on make-up or lip balm, any hand-soiling event, or coughing and sneezing.

Many drug stores carry alcohol-based, waterless hand sanitizers that are easy to use and affordable.

"These products are not a 'magic bullet,'" the infectious disease expert warns. "Antibacterial soaps are used in health care facilities where resistant organisms might be identified. But there is no agreement on whether over-the-counter products can reduce disease transmission."

Another way to stop the spread of germs is to cover the mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing.

"You also can cough or sneeze into your sleeve, elbow or shoulder if a tissue is not available."

Mills-Peninsula is hosting a flu vaccine clinic Wednesday, Jan. 5, 10 a.m. to noon. Call 696-5278 for information.