Protect Yourself

Learn these healthy habits to protect yourself from disease and prevent germs and infectious diseases from spreading.

1. Handle & Prepare Food Safely

Food can carry germs. Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces often when preparing any food, especially raw meat. Always wash fruits and vegetables. Cook and keep foods at proper temperatures. Don't leave food out - refrigerate promptly.

Learn about Food Safety

Safe Food Handling Resources (English and Spanish)

2. Wash Hands Often

Learn how to Clean Hands and Help Prevent Flu

3. Clean & Disinfect Commonly Used Surfaces

Germs can live on surfaces. Cleaning with soap and water is usually enough. However, you should disinfect your bathroom and kitchen regularly. Disinfect other areas if someone in the house is ill. You can use an EPA certified disinfectant (look for the EPA registration number on the label), bleach solution, or rubbing alcohol.

4. Cough & Sneeze Into Your Sleeve

Learn how and when to cover your cough and sneeze.

5. Don't Share Personal Items

Avoid sharing personal items that can't be disinfected, like toothbrushes and razors, or sharing towels between washes. Needles should never be shared, should only be used once, and then thrown away properly.

Learn how to guard against germs

6. Get Vaccinated

Vaccines can prevent many infectious diseases.  There are vaccines for children and adults designed to provide protection against many communicable diseases. There are also vaccines that are recommended or required for travel to certain parts of the world. Our Immunization Program can advise you on immunizations and clinics where you to get needed shots.

7. Avoid Touching Wild Animals

Be cautious around wild animals as they can spread infectious diseases to you and your pets.

8. Stay Home When Sick

I Whack Germs

Try this fun way of remembering the most important steps to staying well.