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How to Prevent the Spread of Contagious Illnesses and Keep Yourself and Your Team Healthy

On top of the fact the normal cold and flu season is upon us, many people are worried about the spread of contagious illnesses in the news, such as the Ebola virus and the Enterovirus, EV-D68.

Enterovirus EV-D68

According to a recent article on cnn.com, the Enterovirus, which is a common virus, is causing more hospitalizations this year than what it typically does. It has spread throughout the Midwest and causes many cold and flu-like symptoms, however is markedly different as it presents more severe respiratory problems. The good thing is there are some ways you prevent the spread of this virus.

This virus, like many others, is spread through close contact with infected people. Following simple steps everyone should use to prevent the spread of the common cold and flu also helps protect you from EV-D68.

Ebola Virus

A recent feature in the New York Times explains the risk for Americans to contract the Ebola virus is “extremely low.” The article goes on further to explain how Ebola is contracted through direct contact with body fluids, and a person is only contagious once they have begun to exhibit symptoms. Therefore, while health care workers working with Ebola patients are at high risk, the general public is not.

Preventing Contagious Illnesses

Follow these recommendations, and pass them along to your team, to help prevent the spread of illness this fall and winter:

  • Take responsibility for your illness. Do not work while you are sick, isolate yourself at home and contact your primary care physician before returning to work.
  • Get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids.
  • Don’t forget to wash your hands. Protect yourself from germs by washing your hands with soap and water. If soap and water is not around, allow an alcohol sanitizer be your best friend.
  • Disinfect surfaces regularly touched by different people, such a doorknobs and countertops.
  • Disinfect your cell phone; think about how often you touch it compared to how often you clean it.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick; save the handshakes, hugs, and sharing utensils for when they are well.

Mastery Technologies offers several online training courses covering related topics. Learn even more tips on how to avoid getting sick by taking “Preventing the Spread of Contagious Illness” or “Wellness: The Five Things You Need to Know About the Flu.” These courses offer practical advice to help you avoid getting sick. “Pandemic Preparedness” offers information on what a pandemic is and how to prepare for one.

Check out this list for all of Mastery’s courses on health and wellness topics.