Basic hygiene etiquette can help prevent the spread of illness and disease. Respiratory illnesses are spread by coughing, sneezing, and unclean hands.

To help stop the spread of germs:

• Wash your hands with soap & water several times a day! Wash for at least 20 seconds (sing ‘Happy Birthday’ twice), then air dry your hands, or use a clean towel or unused paper towel.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes or touching your face.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then put the used tissue in a waste basket. Do not reuse tissues.
• If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
• Clean & disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid shaking hands. Greet people with a smile.
• Maintain “social distance” between strangers or people who you suspect may be ill.
• If you are ill, stay home! Contact your Primary Care Physician for advice.

For more information, refer to: Monroe County DOH, NYS DOH, CDC