In past years the flu has caused high rates of absenteeism among staff and students.  Nearly 164 million days of school are missed due to illness (CDC, 1994).  Colds and flu are spread not only from person to person, but also from the surfaces you come in contact with every day. 

These germs are spread person to person, by coming in contact with an infected individual, or more often by coming in contact with a surface that has been touched by and infected person. 

A cough or a sneeze releases droplets that carry germs to surfaces such as cafeteria tables, doorknobs, desks, and keyboards. Think about how many people may have touched these things before you. If they do not wash their hands, or are not good hand washers, you may have picked up their germs. We know that viruses and bacteria can live on surfaces for two hours or longer.

How to Stop the Spread of Germs:

1. Cover your mouth and nose by coughing into your arm or using a tissue, and clean your hands often.
2. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 15-20 seconds making sure to make bubbles by rubbing your hands together. That is about the time it takes you to sing “Happy Birthday” two times or “Row, Row, Row your Boat” three times. Use a clean towel to dry your hands, and turn off the faucet, if possible, using your towel.
3. Alcohol-based sanitizers and hand wipes work, as well.

Students, and staff, need to get plenty of sleep, physical activity, drink plenty of water and eat a healthy variety of foods to stay healthy in the winter and throughout the year.