Infection Protection Month
As we head into the heart of winter, it’s easy to feel like the common cold and flu are unavoidable. With busy schedules, long workdays, and the cold weather keeping us indoors, it can feel like we’re just waiting for the next illness to come our way. But the truth is, there are simple, everyday actions we can take to reduce our risk—and we don’t have to make big changes or find extra hours in the day to do it.
This month’s wellness theme is all about infection protection: how we can safeguard ourselves against colds and flu. While it might seem like a lot of extra effort, you’ll see that many of the steps we’ll cover are small changes you can easily fit into your routine. The good news is, these simple habits not only help you stay healthy but also help protect those around you.
So, let’s take a closer look at the best ways to keep infections at bay during this busy season. We’ll cover how germs spread, the habits that make a difference, and what to do if you do find yourself under the weather. After all, staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding illness—it’s about making small, consistent choices to feel better and do your best.
Why Infection Protection Matters: Understanding the Spread of Germs
As our experts at spreading colds and flu (a.k.a. kids) may attest, germs can spread in a variety of ways. These ways include airborne transmission, contact with contaminated surfaces, or direct contact, This means that even a simple cough or sneeze can send viruses flying through the air, ready to be inhaled by a nearby victim. In addition to airborne transmission, germs can be passed when we touch contaminated surfaces (like doorknobs, light switches, remote controls) and then proceed to touch our faces.
Upon reading this, you might be thinking, “Okay, this is an unpleasant reminder of common knowledge.” And that’s fair—you’re probably sitting at your desk, not in a rush, and not juggling a hundred things on your to-do list. But we all know that in the midst of a busy day, or when we return home, stress levels are higher and time seems scarcer, it’s a lot harder to focus on these simple precautions. It’s definitely easier said than done, but taking just a few extra steps to protect yourself and others is always worth it in the long run, not only for yourself but your family, coworkers as well.
According to the National Sanitation Foundation, the household area with the highest concentration of germs is the kitchen, rather than the bathroom. The sink, refrigerator handle, cutting boards, countertops and dish sponges/rags are all specifically listed culprits with the most germs. Incidentally, when was the last time you disinfected your spice jars?
Simple Habits to Reduce Your Risk
While we can never escape germs, we can minimize the risk of catching a cold or flu by applying a few easy habits into your daily routine. These are simple actions that make a big impact:
Wash your hands regularly: Make it a habit to wash your hands for at least 15-20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer or wipes.
Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or your sleeve to cover up, and always dispose of tissues properly to prevent the spread of germs.
Disinfect your space: Wipe down commonly touched objects at home and work, like light switches, phones, and keyboards.
Keep your distance: Try to avoid close contact with anyone showing cold or flu symptoms. If you can, wear a mask to reduce the chance of catching or spreading the virus.
These actions, though simple, can significantly lower your chances of catching or passing on what is at best an inconvenience.
Taking Care of Yourself if You Do Get Sick
Even with the best preventative measures, sometimes you’ll catch a cold or the flu. Here’s what you can do to ease your symptoms and recover faster:
- Rest and hydrate: This sounds simple, but adequate rest and fluids can make a huge difference, albeit inconvenient.
- Over-the-counter (OTC) relief: If needed, take OTC medications to relieve fever or pain, but make sure to read labels carefully and consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
- Use a humidifier: A cool-mist vaporizer can help ease congestion and soothe your throat.
- Stay home if you’re sick: If you’re feeling under the weather, it’s important to stay home to avoid spreading germs. Self-care usually works for mild cases of cold and flu, but if symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor.
Wrapping It Up
Don’t feel like you have to overhaul your entire routine. By adding just a few simple steps into your day, you’ll be helping to keep yourself—and others—healthy. Remember: infection protection is all about making it a habit to protect yourself and those around you. So take a moment each day to practice a few simple steps, pick up some hand sanitizer and disinfectants to do a quick wipe down in your home and office, and remind loved ones it’s cold and flu season. Stay healthy, stay safe, and remember—wellness doesn’t have to be perfect to make a positive impact.
Don’t Miss Out on Our Infection Protection Challenge This Month!
This month, our focus is on avoiding colds and flu through simple, effective precautions. Participating is easy and is one way to enter for a chance to win a wellness prize! Just visit your Healthy Life Portal through under the Wellness tab to login and view current challenges. This opportunity serves as a great reminder to adopt and stick to healthy habits to best protect yourself and others during what is still considered cold and flu season!
Starts: February 7, 2025
Ends: February 28, 2025
Discover the CFR Wellness section on the CFR W Drive, where you’ll have access to our past Lunch n’ Learn recordings, wellness flyers, and other valuable resources. Enjoy these resources at your convenience!
Discover a wealth of free educational resources such as videos, classes, articles, and more on Your Healthy Life Portal. Start exploring today to enhance your knowledge and improve your well-being. If you have any questions, don’t worry! Your portal provides easy and quick support to help you get the most out of your experience.
Wellness Log & Goal Sheets can be found on the intranet under Wellness. Please email your SMART goals to Human Resources in order to participate in Wellness! humanresources@cfraz.org.
Can’t wait to win one of our Wellness shirts?
Visit our Wellness Shop today! These shirts will be shipped directly to you. There are multiple colors and styles available.
Reminder: to be entered for a chance to win a Fitbit you must submit 2 ways! Your 5 choices are as follows:
- Take the Survey
- Complete and submit a Wellness log
- Complete and submit a Goal Sheet
- Complete a HealthyLife Portal Wellness Challenge
- Attend a Lunch n’ Learn session NEW!