(NAPSA)—While the flu vaccine shortage has left many consumers confused about how to protect themselves from getting sick this winter, a new study just released by Wirthlin Worldwide Research suggests that there may be an even bigger problem—the vast majority of Americans do not follow basic respiratory hygiene practices. Fortunately, this is a problem with an easysolution. “The truth is that the flu shot does not offer 100 percent protection against influenza and there will not be enough vaccine to cover everyone in need of a shot,” said Dr. Winkler G. Weinberg, leading expert on infectious diseases and author of No Germs Allowed, How to Avoid Infectious Disease at Home and On the Road. “As demonstrated by this new study, the more serious problem is that too many people do not practice good respiratory hygiene which is the key for helping to stop the spread of cold and flu viruses.” The study, conducted at the height of last year’s flu season, found that despite 95 percent of Americans reporting that they do everything possible to prevent the spread of colds and the flu, nearly a quarter of consumers who were observed in high-traffic malls did not cover their mouth when they coughed or sneezed. Only 17 percent used a disposable tissue. And 44 percent used their bare hands, which research shows are primary transmission vehicles for cold viruses. Practice the following proper respiratory hygiene guidelines: Cover your mouth witha disposable tissue, rather than the bare hand when you cough or sneeze. This is because you may touch a startling numberof sur- CA h.. Good respiratory hygiene can help fight off cold and flu viruses. faces before reaching a sink and leave contagious viruses all along the way. Try KLEENEX Brand AntiViral Tissues, which are designed to kill 99.9 percent of five common cold and flu viruses (Rhinovirus Type 1A and 2—the leading cause of the commoncold; Influenza A and Influenza B—causes of the flu; Respiratory Syncytial Virus— the leading cause of lower respiratory infection in children) in the tissue within 15 minutes. While this new tissue is strong enough to kill a cold or flu virus, it is also gentle enoughfor use every day. Immediately throw a used tissue away in the nearest trash basket. Wash your hands. Many people believe it’s soap that kills cold andflu viruses. It’s actually the rubbing, scrubbing and drying action of hand washingthat helps kill cold and flu viruses. In order to do a thorough job, it is necessary to spend a solid 20 seconds rubbing, paying attention to all areas including cuticles, then dry with a clean towel. For more information, visit www.kleenex.com.
