Stop the Spread: 5 Ways to Protect Yourself (And Others) Against Germs
November 20, 2024 | Tags:
You’re enjoying a family gathering when you notice one of your relatives coughing and sneezing frequently. The last thing you want is to become sick and potentially spread it to others. Germ-related illnesses can cause unpleasant symptoms, as seen in about 31 million flu cases between 2022-2023, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Taking precautions can especially protect younger children, older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
When it comes to the spread of germs, you have the power to protect yourself and others. Here’s how:
How you can guard against germs?
1. Wash Your Hands Frequently: The best way to remove germs and prevent the spread of infection, according to the CDC. Wash your hands before and after certain tasks, like preparing and eating food, using the restroom and caring for someone who is ill. Use clean water, lather with soap and scrub for at least 20 seconds before rinsing and drying. That’s singing the “Happy Birthday” song twice!
2. Clean Common Surfaces Routinely: Think about the places your hands touch most: light switches, door handles, countertops. Germs that can make you sick can live on these surfaces for hours or even days. Regularly clean surfaces in your home to reduce the risk of spreading illnesses, including sanitizing or disinfecting with bleach solutions or chemicals.
3. Avoid Close Contact with People Who Are Sick: Germs are also spread through air droplets when people cough or sneeze. Keep a distance of at least six feet and consider other options to connect with others, like phone calls or video chats. Avoid using or touching personal items from people who are showing signs of being sick, especially utensils, food and beverages.
4. Keep Your Germs to Yourself: Sharing is great, but germs are the last thing you want to pass around. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or into your elbow or upper sleeve when you sneeze or cough and wash your hands immediately after. If you feel sick or have a fever, it’s best to stay home.
5. Get a Flu or COVID-19 Vaccine: Think of a vaccine like putting armor on your immune system. A flu shot or COVID-19 booster can protect you and other vulnerable individuals from potentially life-threatening effects. “Young children, elderly people and those who are immunocompromised can have major complications from the flu or COVID-19,” said Stacy Baumeyer, Clinical Quality Management Nurse at Medical Mutual. To reduce your risk, the CDC recommends a yearly flu and COVID-19 vaccine for everyone six months and older. Check availability with any in-network pharmacies or talk to your primary care provider (PCP). Need help? Check out our search tools.
What to do when you feel sick
Be aware if you start feeling sick to avoid spreading illnesses to others. “You are most contagious during the first three days of a viral illness, such as the flu,” Baumeyer said. Since some illnesses share similar symptoms, pay attention to what you’re experiencing to ensure you get the right treatment. A cough, sore throat and stuffy nose are all symptoms of the common cold, the flu and COVID-19. Similarly, a headache, congestion and loss of smell could mean a sinus infection or COVID-19.
If you’re unsure, Medical Mutual is here to help. Members can call our 24/7 Nurse Line at 1-888-912-0636 (TTY 711 for hearing impaired).*
People who test positive for COVID-19 and have high-risk factors, such as cardiac or pulmonary disease, or those who are immunocompromised, should see a doctor immediately, especially if their symptoms are severe. If you or a loved one experiences concerning symptoms, like shortness of breath, chest pain, loss of consciousness, confusion or high fever that does not respond to medication, seek immediate care regardless of your risk factors. You can also contact your PCP and make an appointment. Need help finding a PCP? Use our Find a Provider search tool or call the Customer Care number on your member ID card.
*Nurse Line is not available to all members.