How to Stop Your Family from Swapping Sicknesses

There’s no denying the importance of having close, supportive family members. But that closeness can come with some downsides, too — like a higher likelihood of passing illnesses from one person to another. Colds, flus, and other airborne illnesses are especially problematic in families where members share not only the same space, but often, the same objects.

At Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy, our expert team is dedicated to helping patients of all ages avoid illnesses and enjoy the best possible health. Read on to learn what you can do to prevent the spread of contagious illness in your home.

Keep an eye out for symptoms

Colds, flus, and other illnesses respond best to early treatment. Identifying symptoms early also helps limit exposure and contamination from one person to another. If you notice signs of illness — like fever, fatigue, sore throat, or other symptoms — take steps to prevent the spread right away.

Wash hands often

Frequent handwashing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent germs from spreading. Make it a habit to wash hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and water. Keep hand sanitizer close by, too.

Use disinfectant

Germs aren't just on your hands — they’re easily transferred to surfaces and objects, like light switches, doorknobs, remote controls, computer keyboards, and countertops. Use disinfectant wipes to clean high-touch areas on a regular basis to prevent germs from spreading.

Clean toys, too

Pop dishwasher-safe toys into your machine for a complete wash cycle using hot water or the sanitize cycle, or wash by hand using hot, soapy water. Wash soft, plush toys in the washing machine and dry them using the hot setting.

Wear a face mask

Consider wearing a face mask if you or a loved one is contagious, especially if you’re sneezing or coughing frequently, and particularly if you need to be in close contact. Change masks often and dispose of used ones immediately.

Cough and sneeze with care

Never sneeze or cough into your hands. Instead, use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose or turn your head and sneeze or cough into the crook of your elbow. Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer immediately afterward.

Throw away used tissues

Once tissues are used for coughing, sneezing, or nose-blowing, be sure to throw them away immediately to avoid transferring germs to other surfaces. Keep a small trash can or bag nearby to make prompt disposal easy and convenient.

Don’t share personal items

Families are made for sharing — but not when someone’s sick. Wash bed linens, towels, and blankets to prevent germ spread, and don’t share cups or other personal items. That includes objects like phones and computers, unless each item is thoroughly disinfected afterward.

Stay in separate spaces

If you have the space, try to “quarantine” sick family members to their own space, limiting contact with others — particularly young kids and elderly family members. If separate rooms aren’t an option, be sure to maintain a distance of six feet or more when sharing a space with someone who’s ill.

Stay home if you’re sick

Staying home and resting is important for quick healing and recovery, but it’s also important to keep from spreading germs to other people. During illness, staying home from school or work is essential to prevent potential complications, too.

Get medical help when needed

Colds and flu typically resolve over a couple weeks, but if symptoms persist or worsen or if you or a loved one has a high fever or any signs of infection, it’s important to schedule a visit right away. 

In addition to same-day urgent care, we offer telemedicine visits, too, so you can get the care you need without leaving the comfort of your home. To schedule a visit for yourself or a family member, request an appointment online or over the phone with Minit Medical Urgent Care and Physical Therapy in Kihei, Kahului, and Lahaina, Hawaii, today.