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1. Why should I cover my cough?

Serious respiratory illnesses like influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), whooping cough and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are spread by:

§ Coughing or sneezing

§ Unclean hands

These illnesses spread easily in crowded places where people are in close contact.

2. How do I stop the spread of germs if I am sick?

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze. Throw the used tissue in a waste basket.

If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve.

After coughing or sneezing, always clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
Stay home when you are sick.

Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or other personal items.

3. How can I stay healthy?

Clean your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick, if possible.

Get vaccinated! Influenza (flu) and pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccines can prevent some serious respiratory illnesses.

4. What additional steps can I take to stay healthy?

Avoid smoking and keep your home smoke free.

Avoid crowded places where germs can be passed among people through the air.

Get extra rest – viral infections take 10 to 14 days to resolve.

Drink extra fluids – especially water.

5. When you are at a hospital or clinic

You may be asked to wear a mask to protect others.

Don’t worry if you see staff and other people wearing masks. They are preventing the spread of germs.