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October 2007
Every Day Counts Logo Every Day Counts!
Staying Healthy during Flu and Cold Season
Fall marks the beginning of cold and flu season. Each year, the flu causes high rates of absenteeism among both staff and students. Although there are no known cures, here are some easy tips to help you and your family stay healthy:
  • Wash your hands often – Most cold and flu viruses are spread by direct contact. Germs can live for hours, and in some cases weeks. Wash hands often with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. That’s about the same time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice.

  • Use alcohol-based hand wipes and gel sanitizers – Readily available, alcohol-based disposable wipes and gel sanitizers are a convenient substitute for soap and warm water.

  • Sneeze or cough into your sleeve or elbow – Because germs and viruses cling to bare hands, muffling coughs and sneezes with your hands results in passing along germs to others. Instead, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or elbow. Or, use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose and throw it away immediately.

  • Don’t touch your face – Cold and flu viruses enter the body through the eyes, nose or mouth. Most people catch colds by touching their faces.

  • Get a flu shot – The flu vaccine remains the best way to prevent and control the flu. Flu shots will be made available free to district employees this season. Check the News You Can Use section for dates, times and locations.
Information provided by the Department of Health & Human Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention.

The Every Day Counts! campaign is supported by a grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation.