The past year has proven to be a roller coaster no one wanted to ride, however as we enter the Advent and Christmas season, let’s have hope that this season we will find peace, joy and health. Over the last several months we have discussed some very current and vital health topics. This month, we get back to basics and focus on some tips to keep us safe and healthy as we navigate this holiday season.
We begin by bringing awareness to National Handwashing Awareness Week which is December 1st through the 7th. This year it is even more important that we bring awareness to handwashing as the CDC is recommending proper handwashing as one of the best ways to protect yourself and loved ones from getting sick.
We all know how to wash our hands but as a friendly reminder here are some examples of the best times to wash your hands:
- Before, during and after you prepare food for yourself and others.
- Prior to eating any food or sitting down for a meal.
- Before and after you are in contact with or caring for someone who is sick or not feeling well.
- Before you are caring for any open cuts or wounds and then after treating them.
- After you have used the bathroom or a public restroom.
- After you have changed personal hygiene products for yourself or if you have assisted someone else.
- After touching animal or pet related items, including food, treats or waste.
- After you have blown your nose or sneezed.
- If you are coughing or cough into your hand, be sure to wash your hands afterwards.
- Upon returning home after being out in the community such as grocery shopping, running errands or anywhere you may have been touching communal areas.
It’s also important to note that when handwashing isn’t available, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to cleanse your hands is an alternative until you are able to properly wash your hands with soap and water. For more information on how to choose proper hand sanitizers, please visit the CDC website.
Proper handwashing is so vital to helping stop the spread of germs that we are posting a flyer on the best ways to wash your hands here in Health Notes as well. Please take a moment to review and if you have any questions, please reach out.
Aside from washing your hands properly there are a few other things you can do to stay healthy and well this holiday season. Doing your best to social distance from individuals with whom you do not live with and limiting contact with large groups of people are another way to avoid getting sick.
If you are not able to socially distance, be sure to wear a mask that covers both your nose and mouth. Covering both your nose and mouth are vital as these are places where germs can get into your body or how you could unknowingly spread germs to another person. It is important to bring all of these tips up as they have been proven to be the best ways to avoid getting sick not only from COVID-19 but also from the flu and other illnesses.
We hope these tips and clarifications have been helpful and pray that this holiday season you are able to pause and reflect on both the challenges and blessings this year has brought. Try during Advent to find time each day to reflect on the reason we celebrate this season as a time of preparation and prayer as we await the birth of Jesus with hope for a healthier year to come. God Bless each of you and your families and may you stay safe, healthy and well this Advent and Christmas season. From all of us here at VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services, we wish you a blessed Advent and Christmas season and a New Year filled with health and bountiful blessings.
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