Tips to Prevent the Spread of Infectious Diseases

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Let's admit it, nobody wants to be sick. From the common cold to more serious strains of the flu, many infectious diseases run rampant through modern society. You cannot just stop all contact with the outside world in order to stay healthy, but there are many ways you can help lessen your odds of contracting an infectious disease. If you want to stay healthy even when surrounded by sick people, here are six ways you can help prevent contracting an infectious disease.

1. Wash Your Hands
One of the most important ways you can be proactive in preventing the spread of infectious diseases is by washing your hands. Everything you touch can contain disease causing microbes and the best way to avoid these microbes from causing illness is by washing your hands. To get the most out of hand washing, make sure you washing your hands vigorously for about 20 seconds. This should wash away all the unhealthy germs.

2. Stop Sharing
If you truly want to protect yourself from an infectious disease, refrain from sharing personal items like toothbrushes, makeup, towels and razor blades. Sharing these items can increase your chances of contracting an infectious disease.

3. Get Vaccinated
A wide variety of vaccinations can help you protect yourself from contracting infectious diseases. If you want to eliminate your chances of obtaining one of these horrible illnesses, stay up to date on your vaccinations and get a yearly flu shot.

4. Cook Safely
Many infectious diseases are caused by unsafe cooking habits. Before you cook, make sure you thoroughly wash your hands so to avoid contaminating the food your are cooking. Also, make sure foods like vegetables are washed properly so to clean away possibly bacteria.

5. Safe Sex
Though it is not common in Nepal, because of cultural and tradition. Many infectious diseases are spread through sexual contact, and that is why it is important to wear a condom each time your have sex. If you are in serious relationship, ask your partner about his or her sexual past and if necessary, have that person submit to std testing if you want to engage in sexual acts without the use of condoms.

6. Travel Cautiously
In a variety of countries, there are an abundance of diseases that are not necessarily seen in America. Before you travel abroad, make sure you are aware of the types of illnesses that are common to the country you will be visiting. Be sure to get the vaccinations needed for a health and safe vacation.

Fortunately, the risk of contracting an infectious disease can be minimized greatly if you follow the six above listed tips. In order to protect your health, always remember to wear a condom, be a cautious traveler, cook food properly, wash your hands, get vaccinated, and never share personal items. At that point, you can be certain that you will be doing all you can to help protect yourself from contracting an infectious disease.

This is guest post by Ian Watertown who writes about health, travel & more here.