Transmission and Prevention of Spread of Common Cold and Flu
How common cold and Flu Spreads
Cold and Flu can be spread from one person to another through the following:
1.Airborne droplets:
When an infected person coughs sneezes or talks, tiny particles may be released into the air that others may breathe in thereby getting infected by the virus.
2. Direct contact: By shaking hands with the infected person or coming into clos contact with them, then touching the face, more so the mouth, nose, or eyes.
3. Contaminated objects: Upon contact with surfaces that have the virus such as staircase bars, doorknobs, or even the computer keyboards, one may get the virus.
Measures and Habits that can help reduce spread of Cold and Flu can be taken as a collective responsibility for the entire community or as individual habits that target proper hygiene .
Community Responsibility.
1. Public health campaigns: Society can lead awareness campaigns in newspapers and social media platforms to encourage good health practices beyond vaccination.
2. Vaccination Programs:- Community health centers can offer flu shots or provide the same for free at schools and other learning institutions.
3. Hygiene Promotion: Ensure hand sanitizer dispensers are placed in public areas such as shopping centers, bus stations, and schools.
4. Isolation Protocols:- Establish guidelines that let staff members take sick days without worrying about losing their jobs, thereby ensuring other staff members aren’t infected.
5. Sanitization and Cleaning: This society can come together and organize cleanups in the neighbourhood and disinfection services in areas with high human traffic.
Distributing Information: Utilizing clear informative posters, flyers, and public announcements on how to stop the spread of the diseases.
Individual Habits that help reduce spread of Cold and Flu.
1. Hand hygiene:
Always carry a hand sanitizer; especially during cold and Flu seasons. In all seasons ensure you wash your hands as frequently as possible.
2. Respiratory Etiquette:
When sneezing or coughing, always cover the nose and mouth to avoid spreading the virus to those around you.
Furthermore, always wear masks when going out in public places during Flu and cold outbreaks.
3. Avoid Touching Your Face especially when interacting with people in public places.
4. Vaccination:
It will be good to take a flu shot once there is an outbreak to ensure you are protected.
5. Stay Home if Sick
Stay home in case of sickness and maintain home remedy strategies to the best of your ability so as not to infect others.
6. Healthy Lifestyle: Drink plenty of water and consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to boost your immunity.
8.Disinfect Personal Things.
Make it a routine to disinfect commonly touched things like phones and keys, using wipes or sprays to ensure prevention of the virus.
9. When battling flu, always ensure you use a clean handkerchief every time you need to blow your nose or utilize disposable materials such as tissue rolls.
Through understanding the transmission of common cold and flu and taking the necessary steps in preventing the spread individuals and the community at large will ensure proper management of flu episodes hence promoting healthy habits in the community.
