MADISON –  If you want to minimize the risk of catching a common cold, a strain of influenza or the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), then Wisconsin Safety Council encourages you to do what your mother always told you to do during cold and flu season: practice simple, but effective hygiene.
Specifically, Wisconsinites can minimize the risk of contracting a virus or other infection by following Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines, which include:
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
In addition to the above, people who are feeling ill should stay home from school or work to minimize the risk of infecting others, and shouldn’t return until they are fully recovered. The state Safety Council also encourages those who have not done so to get a flu shot.
“People should exercise common sense to stay healthy during this cold and flu season,” said Aaron Huebner, Wisconsin Safety Council Executive Director. “Being intentional about hygiene will go a long way to minimizing the risk of getting sick.”
As it relates to COVID-19, the Safety Council recommends that people monitor the CDC website (cdc.gov) for updates, best practices and travel advisories. Wisconsin Safety Council and its parent organization, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, have also released a resource center for businesses and individuals at wmc.org/coronavirus.
“The CDC has excellent resources available for the general public and employers designed to help contain the spread of COVID-19 in the U.S.” said Huebner. “The best coronavirus countermeasure is to practice proper hygiene and monitor developments in your area or where you plan to travel.”
Additional information about COVID-19 will be provided by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services on Wednesday, March 4 at 9:15am during a briefing at the State Capitol.
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