By Patti Balestrieri, APNP, Door County Medical Center
Q: I’m a busy working mom, and I can’t afford to get sick! How can I avoid colds and flu this winter?
A: Proper handwashing is the first line of defense against cold and flu season. What’s more, encouraging good hand hygiene for the whole family can decrease illness in the household.
- Sing the ABCs. It takes at least 20 seconds to kill germs. Have children sing the alphabet song while lathering, then rinse.
- Soap and water. Washing with soap and water is more effective than hand sanitizer, and less drying to the skin.
- Germ control. When in public restrooms, use a paper towel to turn off the sink and open the restroom door when exiting.
- Cough smart. Teach children to cough into the crook of their arm, rather than their hands.
DCMC’s Urgent Care Department, located within the Sturgeon Bay facility, is open every day of the year from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.