What should I do if someone in my household is sick?

Good handwashing is important for both the sick individual as well as everyone else in the household with either soap and water or alcohol-based hand cleaner. Wash your hands with soap and water for about 15-20 seconds. If using alcohol-based hand cleaner rub into your hands until get is dry.

Flu viruses can live on objects (environmental surfaces) for up to 2-8hrs.

The virus is destroyed by heat (167-212 degrees F), chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodine based antiseptics, and alcohol based cleaners if used in proper concentration and for a sufficient length of time. Follow directions of back of product label.

Keep bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters, and toys for children clean by using a disinfectant.

Used tissues and other disposable items should be thrown in the trash. People should wash their hands with soap and water after touching used tissues and similar waste.

Linens, utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but importantly these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first. Linens (bed sheets and towels) should be washed with laundry soap and dried on a hot setting. Individuals should avoid “hugging” laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating themselves. Individuals should wash their hands with soap and water or alcohol based had cleaners immediately after handling dirty laundry.