If one family member comes down with a cold, the flu, or other contagious illness, the rest of the family doesn't have to get sick. Prevention and avoiding exposure are the best methods.

Steps To Prevent Spreading Illness

First, limit exposure. Isolate a sick family member in their bedroom rather than place them in a common area like the living room or den. Keep someone sick seperate from the others - especially other children - during the first stages of illness may help prevent everyone coming down with the same bug.

Encourage hand washing and set a good example. Hand washing is basic hygiene but too many Americans fail to wash hands. The most vital times for hand washing are before eating or handling food, after coughing or blowing the nose, after using the toilet, after touching eyes, nose, or mouth, and after contact with someone who is ill. Frequent handwashing with antibacterial soap can kill many germs before they can infect someone so wash hands often. Wash for at least 28 seconds for best results.

Use disposable tissues rather than handkerchiefs. Tossing used tissues can remove germs from possible contact with others where handkerchiefs can carry germs for hours.

Teach everyone to cover their mouth after a sneeze or cough. Discourage kissing - unless it's on the back of the neck - while ill to avoid passing germs along with the affection.

Cleanliness Is Good Protection

Don't stop with hand washing. Keep the infected family member from helping with food preparation. Don't share food from one plate to another and don't share drinks. Germs pass easily with shared utensils or dishes so don't share. Wash all plates, silverware, pans, and cups in hot soapy water or use the dishwasher to sanitize as well as clean.

Use disinfectant sprays on common items like telephones, bathroom faucets, toys, or other items that are used by everyone.

Replace toothbrushes often and after an illness is a good time to replace everyone's toothbrush. Change bedding and clothing often.

With vigilance, common sense, and cleanliness, families can prevent the spread of most contagious diseases from affecting everyone.