Personal Hygiene and Everyday Etiquette During Illness Season

Good hygiene habits are one of the simplest—and most effective—ways to reduce the spread of illness during cold, flu, and COVID season.

Coughing and Sneezing Etiquette

Proper etiquette makes a big difference. Always cough or sneeze into your inner elbow, not into the air or your hands. This simple step helps prevent germs from spreading to surfaces and other people.

Hand Hygiene

Hand hygiene is critical for keeping yourself and others healthy:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water

  • Use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available

  • Wash hands before eating or preparing food

  • Dry hands completely—bacteria cling to wet hands just as easily as dirty ones

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth if your hands haven’t been washed and wash after touching or use sanitizer.

Some people choose to wear disposable gloves for added protection. Remember: gloves collect germs just like bare hands and should be changed frequently. Treat them as an extension of your hands, not a replacement for proper hygiene.

Food Safety and Illness

If you’re preparing meals for yourself or others, hand hygiene is essential. Avoid cooking for others if you’re feeling unwell, especially when dealing with highly contagious viruses or stomach illnesses. As much as sharing is caring when sick or suspecting you or another person are sick avoid sharing food or drinks, including shared utensils, straws, and any serving ware.

Masks and Personal Protection

Wearing a mask in crowded or high-traffic areas can help reduce exposure, particularly during peak illness season. When possible, staying home while sick protects coworkers, friends, and the public.

Everyday Hygiene Habits

Carrying travel-sized tissues and hand sanitizer makes it easier to maintain hygiene wherever you go. Small, consistent actions like these add up to healthier shared spaces for everyone.

Extra Tip: Frequent handwashing and sanitizing can dry out skin, especially for those with sensitive skin. Carry a moisturizer or a petroleum jelly based product, preferably unscented, to help protect hands and prevent irritation.

Showroom Janitorial is here to help. Call us at (204) 694-9513 or visit our Cleaning Services page to learn more.

Katie Robinson