Washing Hands of Viruses

With the change to wintry weather, comes the cold and flu season. Prevention is always important, but heightened diligence may be warranted during and after cancer treatment. Thorough hand washing is considered one of the most helpful strategies. Our hands come into contact daily with potential sources of one of many viruses that cause upper respiratory infections.

It's important to wash your hands:

• Before eating or preparing food
• Before and after touching a wound or break in the skin
• Before touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• After using a toilet or urinal
• Every time your hands are visibly dirty
• After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing

When soap and water aren't available, a waterless, alcohol-based (at least 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer is recommended.

It is common to feel anxious and vulnerable to illnesses during and after cancer treatment. Be mindful of what we can do to keep ourselves and those around us healthy. While, it's not always easy to remember to keep your hands clean, it can help prevent a cold or the flu.

Connect with others discussing topics related to living with cancer in the Cancer: Managing Symptoms group.