The most important way to protect yourself, coworkers, and your loved ones from getting a cold or the flu is to know how it spreads.

Colds and flu are spread mainly from person-to-person in the following ways:

• Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
• Respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
• These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
• Sometimes before you actually show symptoms of a cold or flu you could be contagious.

Clean and disinfect

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
• If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
• Then, use a household disinfectant.