According to The New York Times article, "With Soap and Water or Sanitizer, a Cleaning That Can Stave Off the Flu," (September 15, 2009), one of the most effective ways to prevent contracting and spreading the H1N1 virus is to WASH YOUR HANDS.
 
A recent study examining the basic hygiene of college students found that they touched their eyes, nose or lips on the average of once every four minutes while studying. These behaviors significantly facilitate the spread of infection. In fact, hand-to-face contact accounts for more that 1/3 of the risk of acquiring a flu infection.
 
Using soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, can effectively eliminate the H1N1 virus from hands. It is important to remind our clients and ourselves that good hand-hygiene is an essential part of staying well this flu season.
 
However, hand-washing alone will not do the trick. To further reduce the risk of getting the infection, respiratory etiquette, meaning coughing and sneezing into the crook of your elbow, is also essential.
 
We have created handouts with tips for staying healthy during this flu season.
 
You may access them from our website using these links:  
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