- Run the dishwasher on hot each day. Any used glasses, bowls, silverware or plates should be placed in the dishwasher or hand washed immediately. Run the dishwasher on hot for the longest cycle each day to ensure proper disinfection.
- Wash your hands until your skin bleeds. (OK, the bleeding part isn’t really necessary.) Just wash your hands with warm water and rub them together with soap for at least 25 seconds. Repeat this as many times per day as you feel is necessary but definitely any time you come into contact with the ill person, after eating or using the bathroom, or after cleaning.
- Quarantine your family after the illness subsides. To prevent the additional spread of germs to the general public, it is always a good idea to remain at home for a period of at least 24 hours after your symptoms have ended. All family members in the same household should consider doing the same thing. There’s no reason to share the "wealth."
Consider sleeping in separate quarters if your spouse or partner is ill. Although this may seem less comfortable, it might be preferable to sleep less soundly for a few days than to contract some nasty bug like the flu.
Taking some proactive and precautionary measures while you or a family member is ill, and in the period immediately following the illness, can greatly reduce the spread of contagious germs and help keep you and your community healthy. Make sure to follow these steps to de-germ your home and send that bug packing!