Give germs the red card!

We’re about to start a new season—but not for football or any other of your favorite sports. We’re talking about the time of year when coughs, colds, and fevers can take you out of the game.  

No one wants to be sidelined by respiratory viruses. Watch the video above for details about respiratory all-star moves and follow these tips to give germs the red card! 

• Clean hands, clean plays—Wash your hands frequently. The clock starts the second you hit the sink—20 seconds with soap and water. Be sure to run a zone defense and scrub front, back, between your fingers, and under your nails. 
• Get your shots in—A strong defense wins championships, and your immune system is no different. Vaccines are your immune system’s MVPs. Vaccinations against flu, COVID-19, and RSV can reduce how sick you get or even prevent you from getting sick altogether. When you’re protected, you help keep others safe too, especially young kids, older adults, and teammates with chronic health conditions.   
• Elbow assist—Instead of coughing or sneezing into your hands, aim for your elbow. It’s quick, clean, and keeps your hands free of germs that can travel to doorknobs, water bottles, and shared PPE and other gear.   
• Rest is part of the game—When you’re sick, taking a timeout and staying home is the right move.  
• Train like a pro—Treat your immune system like the pro it is! That means getting enough food, movement, rest, and hydration to fuel an all-star performance.   

Resources 

Browse these resources for information on controlling the spread of the flu and other infectious diseases in the workplace.