Home and Family > Germs: Protect Your Family through Simple, Easy Practices
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Article rating : 0.00, 0 votes. Author : Lisa Barger
Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.
The CDC tells us that 80% of all infections are spread through touch. They recommend washing for at least 20 seconds and I recommend washing immediately after coming indoors and as soon as possible after shaking hands. I also recommend washing your hands before eating, brushing your teeth or applying cosmetics.
Buy white underwear and bleach it.
Did you know it’s possible to spread fecal germs from your underwear onto towels, pillowcases and more? Most washers and dryers can’t get hot enough to kill bacteria but adding bleach (following the instructions on the bottle) to wash water will eliminate germs.
Wash dishes as soon as possible after a meal.
Get in the habit of washing up as you prepare a meal and you’ll greatly reduce your chances of cross-contamination. As soon as possible after your meal wash your dishes and clean out your sink. Leaving dirty dishes overnight invites roaches, mice and other pests. And while we’re talking about pests . . .
Take care of pests immediately.
You may associate Hantavirus (the often deadly virus carried by mice) as a problem only in arid regions but it’s also been found in places like Rhode Island. If you find rodent droppings in your home wet them with a germicidal product and then wear a mask and gloves to remove them.
Lower the toilet lid when flushing.
Years ago a team of researchers found
that microscopic droplets of water are sprayed from commercial toilets every time those toilets are flushed. Your home toilet doesn’t have quite the power of a commercial model but it’s still a good idea to get your family into the habit of keeping the toilet lid closed.
Change shoes as you come inside.
It’s possible to bring germs in on your shoes. Consider having your family members leave their street shoes and overcoats at the front door. Having a long “walk off” mat in your foyer will also remove and catch dirt.
Contain pets or keep them only in certain areas.
They may be part of your family but your pets also have potential to spread germs throughout your home. I recommend, at minimum:
*Keep dogs and cats out of your bedrooms and off countertops.
*Keep litter boxes clean by scooping at least once a day.
*Don’t allow pets to lick your face.
*If someone in your home is pregnant make sure your doctor
tells you about toxoplasmosis.
*Wash your pets’ dishes separately from your family’s dishes.
*Address pest infestations immediately. Better yet, talk to your veterinarian about preventative measures.
*Wash your hands well after grooming, handling or cleaning up after pets. This is especially important if you have reptiles.
Lisa Barger is a traditionally trained naturopath specializing in illness prevention counseling. For more information about protecting your family from germs please see our web site at http://www.LisaBarger.com.
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