Tips on Avoiding the Flu and other Contagious Diseases

Washing your hands frequently can help prevent the spread of illness.

April  27, 2009

Healthy Habits Keep Your Family Well

The recent news about the swine flu outbreak is a reminder about the importance of healthy habits at home, work and school.

All types of viruses, including influenza, are spread through contact with respiratory fluids, either when a susceptible person is in close contact with the ill person or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one's own eyes, nose or mouth. By taking some precautions, we can help prevent the spread of contagious diseases.

University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry encourages all members of the school community, including students, dental patients, faculty, staff and visitors, to follow these guidelines:

1. Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are ill. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
2. Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are unwell. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Source: Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs Fact Sheet, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

To stay informed about influenza and other contagious diseases, visit the CDC Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu. The University of the Pacific has also set up a Flu Advisory page.

Category Type: General

Contact:  Office of Public Relations, 415.929.6434, pr@pacific.edu