7 ways to avoid germs throughout the day

Did you know from the minute you wake up in the morning until you fall back into bed at night, you’ll likely encounter billions of germs throughout your day? It’s important to understand that not all of the germs you’re exposed to on a daily basis are harmful. In fact, some microscopic bugs are actually helpful.

“Many people are back in the office now, while it’s impossible to avoid germs entirely there are some beneficial bacteria and organisms that actually help us function better as humans,” says Nardos Workneh, NP, with Skyline Primary Care – a part of HealthONE. “Our bodies do a pretty good job of fighting off the bad germs and we sometimes use the beneficial bacteria to help fight off those infections as well.

Workneh recommends six ways you can be proactive and help reduce your risk of infection.

1. Keep your hands clean

Washing your hands thoroughly and often with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself against respiratory and foodborne illnesses as well as infections that cause vomiting and diarrhea.

“Some germs can survive on surfaces for hours. Respiratory viruses contained in droplets from coughs or sneezes can land on commonly-used objects, desks and countertops,” Workneh says. “Touching contaminated surfaces – like doorknobs, light switches, ATM machines, elevator buttons and other everyday items – then rubbing your eyes or touching your nose or mouth can lead to infection.”

It’s important to also note that viruses and bacteria can also spread through direct contact, including shaking hands, hugging or kissing.

Workneh also recommends using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer as a good alternative – if you choose the right one and use it frequently and properly. 

“Choose a hand sanitizer than contains at least 60 percent alcohol,” Workneh says. “Before applying the liquid or gel, remove as much dirt or debris from your hands as possible. Read the product label for instructions and apply as much as directed to ensure its effectiveness. Then, rub the sanitizer over all surfaces of your hands until they are dry.

Workneh also recommends cleaning your hands before eating or touching your eyes, mouth or nose, after using the bathroom and while working in the kitchen. 

2. Keep your distance

Stay home if you are sick. “Someone with the flu can spread the virus to others who are standing up to six feet away,” says Workneh.

Workneh says other viruses that cause the common cold, measles and pertussis (whooping cough) can also spread through the air via droplets from the coughs and sneezes of infected people. If you inhale these contaminated droplets, you could also become infected. 

“The best way to avoid getting sick is to keep some distance between you and anyone who is or appears to be sick,” says Workneh.

3. Don’t share your stuff (or borrow from others)

Workneh says you may be more mindful about germs in restrooms and public places but become relatively lax when you’re around friends and coworkers. 

“Sharing or exchanging personal items, such as towels, razors, lipstick and water bottles, can spread infection Workneh says. “Don’t use someone else’s utensils or drink from another person’s glass. This is also a great reminder for children and teens.”

4. Disinfect common surfaces routinely

Don’t forget to clean your work space.

“We remember to be vigilant about germs at home, routinely cleaning our bathroom and kitchen countertops. But you could also protect yourself from infection by disinfecting other objects and surfaces you come into contact with throughout your day, this includes your work space,” says Workneh.

If you work in an office, it’s a good idea to clean your keyboard, desktop and other surfaces you touch on a regular basis. Keep your work area stocked with tissues, soap, alcohol-based hand sanitizer and antiseptic wipes.

5. Be cautious about buffets and communal food trays

Workneh says be cautious about the shared food. You may be rolling the dice if you dive into a communal candy dish or cookie platter that lacks a clean serving utensil.

“If you’re eating out at a cafeteria buffet or salad bar, make sure the foods that should be cold are chilled and the hot foods are steaming, which could help you avoid food-borne illnesses,” Workneh says. “It’s also wise to avoid eating perishable foods that have been sitting out at work or a party for more than two hours without refrigeration.”

6. Boost your immune system and vaccinate

Aside from doing what you can to stay healthy and keep your immune system strong, Workneh recommends getting quality sleep, following a healthy diet and exercising regularly, the most important way to avoid many risky infections, including coronavirus, measles, flu, pertussis, hepatitis and varicella (chicken pox), is to be fully vaccinated against them.

7. Establish a relationship with a primary care provider

“It’s important to have a primary care provider that you can trust and who can can teach you ways to stay healthy – like staying up-to-date on vaccines, treat you when you’re sick and help you get more advanced care when you need it,” Workneh says.

Workneh says the following routine preventative screenings are essential to caring for yourself:

• Cervical cancer screenings (age 21+) – Pap smears help ensure that your cervix is in good health. If you are 30-65 years old, testing for HPV could be an option as well.
• Breast cancer screenings (age 40+) – Mammograms help detect breast cancer in its early stages, and physical breast exams help find lumps and irregularities that may require further evaluation.
• Colon cancer screenings (age 45+) – Routine colorectal health screenings help us discover signs of colon and rectal cancers early when treatments are most effective.
• HPV vaccine (ages 9 - 26) – This vaccine is crucial for preventing HPV infections that can cause cancer. People can receive the HPV vaccine into their mid-20s, and it's recommended for both males and females.

“Talk your primary care provider and find out if these screenings are right for you,” Workneh says.

At HealthONE we make it easy to find a physician to take care of your family. Find a physician at healthonecares.com or call (303) 575-0055.