How to Practice Germ Prevention

Germs can live from 20 minutes to 2 hours on many common objects, such as tables and doorknobs. Across the country, the number of days lost to illnesses caused by germs annually numbers in the millions. Luckily, you can do many things to practice germ prevention.

Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands with soap and warm running water. Wash after using the bathroom, before eating and after visiting public areas. If soap and water aren't available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

• 2

  Cover your mouth when you coughs or sneeze so that you're not transmitting airborne germs for others to breathe. If you have a tissue or handkerchief, use it.

• 3

  Sanitize kitchen sponges or dishcloths by wetting them and heating them in the microwave for two minutes.

• 4

  Use hypochlorite-cleaning solutions to clean faucets, doorknobs, light switches and drains at home. Rinse afterwards.

• 5

  Stay healthy with good nutritional habits, exercise and sleep habits. Practice good healthy habits to strengthen your immune system.

• 6

  Keep your hands away from your nose, mouth and eyes to prevent the spreading of germs.

• 7

  Turn off faucets in public places with a paper towel after washing your hands.

• 8

  Use HEPA filters. They filter pollen and remove bacteria from the air. Houseplants also purify the air, although not as thoroughly.