Help Reduce The Spread Of Germs (NAPSA)—Most people do not realize the many ways they can encounter viruses and bacteria on a daily basis that may cause colds, flu and other respiratory infections. While there are no ways to prevent or cure the commoncold or flu, it is possible to help reduce thelikelihood of getting sick by limiting the transmission of germs that may cause infection. More than 1 billion colds are contracted by children and adults each year in the U.S. and approximately 36,000 deaths and more than 200,000 hospitalizations are attributed to flu annually. According to the National Institutes of Health, the common cold is a leading cause of doctor visits and missed days from school and work. Cold andflu viruses are spread person to person by respiratory droplets through coughing or sneezing and exchangeof secretions of the nose or mouth. Healthy adults are able to spread the flu virus one day before symptoms appear and up to seven days after becomingsick, so it’s possible to give someone the flu before you even know you aresick. Avoiding the spread of viruses that cause colds or flu is particularly important since these viruses do not respondwell to antibiotics. According to Dr. il Schachter, author of “The Good Doctor’s Guide to Colds & Flu,” “My patients are always searching for answers on how to reduce their risk and their families’ risk of contracting colds and flu. One of the easiest ways is by having key products on hand to help reduce the spread of germs that cause infection all in one place, including hand-sanitizing gels and wipes.” While colds and flu are conta- Learn about easy, convenient ways to prepare for cold and flu season. gious and cannot be prevented or cured, use of certain products, such as hand-sanitizing gels and wipes, masks, gloves, and individual ther- mometers for each memberof the family, may be helpful in limiting transmission of germs that may cause infection. These essential items are available in convenient, single kits such as the xcare™ Health Preparedness Kit or GoPak, which are ideal for the home, purseortravel. Studies show that frequent hand washing and use of alcoholbased hand sanitizers can help limit the spread of germs. Covering the mouth when coughingor sneezing with disposable tissues or masks can also help prevent the spread of germsto others. The xcare Health Preparedness Kit and Go-Pak are available nationally at selected drugstores, mass merchandise retailers and otherstores. For more information about the xcare Health Preparedness Kit and Go-Pak or to obtain Dr. Schachter’s tips on healthy habits to help reduce the spread of germs, please visit the xcare Website at www.nexcare.com.
