What are germs?

Germs are microscopic, living organisms that can pervade the body and cause infections such as fevers, vomiting, rashes, and coughing. There are four major types of germs: bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. Germs are generally spread from person to person by sneezing, coughing, and sometimes by sweat and saliva. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that some viruses and bacteria can live two hours or longer on the surface of cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks.

Fight germs

Teaching children to adopt a few healthy habits can go a long way in keeping your family healthy.

• Teach children to cover their mouths when they cough and to cover their noses and mouths when they sneeze to prevent spreading germs.
• Children should wash their hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds after coughing or sneezing; before eating; after using the bathroom; after playing with pets; and after playing outside.
• Children tend to use tissues and then discard them inappropriately, leaving th em for someone else to throw away. Teach children to throw tissues in the garbage can to prevent the spread of germs.

A healthy home

Taking steps to maintain a safe and healthy home is one of the best things you can do for your family. Consider the following suggestions from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• In the kitchen and bathrooms, routinely clean and disinfect surfaces. Clean and disinfect all counters and other surfaces before, during, and after preparing food (especially meat and poultry).
• Keeping a constant refrigerator temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. The freezer temperature should be 0 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
• Wash your cutting boards, dishes, utensils, and counter tops with hot soapy water after preparing each food item and before you prepare the next food.
• Foods are safely cooked when they are heated for a long-enough time and at a high-enough temperature to kill the harmful bacteria that cause foodborne illnesses. The target temperature is different for different foods.
• Get immunized. Make sure you and your children get the shots suggested by your doctor or healthcare provider at the proper time, and keep records of immunization for the whole family.
• Use antibiotics appropriately. Antibiotics are powerful drugs used to treat certain bacterial infections‚Äîand they should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Make sure your children eat right, participate in physical activity, drink water, and get an adequate amount of sleep to maintain good health.

This information has been provided by Saint Thomas Health Services to give you the latest information on health and wellness. For more information on their programs & services, call (615) 284-6859 or visit them online at www.sths.com.

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