Germ season is upon us. While there is no way to prevent sickness or kill germs entirely, there are a few precautions you can take to limit the effect they have on your family. Here are a few expert approved tips to keep your family happy and healthy.

Wash Your Hands While it may seem obvious, washing your hands frequently is the best way to prevent the spread of germs. Studies have shown that 80% of infectious diseases are spread by touch. Washing your hands and receiving the proper vaccinations are the best ways to stay healthy.

Not only should children was there hands frequently, they should do so thoroughly, scrubbing their hands with soap and hot water for 20 seconds.

Use Hand Sanitizer Using alcohol based hand sanitizer can also help to keep germs at bay when soap and water are not available. Just as you would with soap, rub your hands together for 20 seconds or until the gel evaporates.

Disinfect the House A disinfecting spray can help to reduce the spread of germs on commonly touched surfaces. During cold and flu season disinfect door handles, tables, faucets and hand rails to prevent the spread of germs from one family member to the next. Cleaning plastic toys in the dishwasher and stuffed animals in the washing machine can also reduce the spread of illness between children.

Limit Sharing Limit sharing items that make contact with your face. Avoid swapping silverware, cups, food, towels and other objects to prevent the spread of germs and illness.

Avoid Contact While it may not be possible to keep children away from each other entirely, limiting contact between sick children and healthy children can reduce the risk of illness. Try and separate sick siblings and healthy siblings during play time. Also, it is important to keep children home from school until they are feeling better.

Eat Healthy Healthy eating comes with a variety benefits. A healthy diet can strengthen the immune system, leaving you less susceptible to illness.

Get Vaccinated Getting vaccinated is one of the most important things you can do to prevent the flu and spread of germs.

Since germs can spread before symptoms appear, it is difficult to prevent the spread of germs entirely. However, practicing these tips can limit the spread of germs and illness. When sickness strikes, the compassionate staff at NiteOwl Pediatrics is here to help.