Information on Maintaining Good Hygiene

There are some simple and effective measures that can be practiced that will assist in controlling and minimising the spread of influenza. These include:

• Taking common-sense steps can limit the spread of germs - make good hygiene a habit;
• Always wash your hands;
• Touching your face with contaminated hands can infect you with influenza;
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Put used tissues in a wastebasket;
• Do not use hankies as these aid in spreading influenza;
• Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing. Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner;
• If you feel sick and have flu-like symbtoms, see your doctor immediately and don't attend work if you are diagnosed with the Flu.

Hand Hygiene

• It is important to maintain strict hand hygiene in reducing the spread of infectious bacteria. Washing hands with soap and water or with alcohol based products greatly assist in reducing the spread of germs. If hands are contaminated with visible discharge (phlegm, spit), it is important to immediately wash your hands with soap and warm water, scrubbing the hands, fingers and nails for at least 15 seconds. Rinse and dry with a clean dry towel.
• Alternatively, if there are no visible contaminants on hands, you can wash your hands with an alcohol-based product.
• Always wash your hands after contact with people or equipment used by people.
• Avoid putting your hands near your face.

Cough and Sneeze Etiquette

If you sneeze or cough, always:

• Cover your mouth and nose;
• Use disposable tissues instead of your hands or hankies – hankies can store and spread the virus;
• Dispose of tissues in the nearest rubbish receptacle;
• After using a tissue, always wash your hands prior to touching anyone or any equipment.

Household and Workplace Hygiene

Surfaces of tools, equipment and utensils are common areas for infection and can harbour bacteria that lead to the spread of a pandemic. Other surfaces that can harbour bacteria are doorknobs, taps and computer equipment.

People should not share cups or utensils (knives, forks and spoons), plates etc. People at home or in the workplace should avoid contact with others who have contracted influenza. If a person has contracted influenza and is being cared for at home, they should be isolated, where possible, from the rest of the household. All personal items should be kept separate from the rest of the household. Carers should wear facemasks at all times to minimise the chances of contracting influenza.

Equipment, tools and common surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected regularly to assist in minimising the spread of a pandemic.