Medical News

05.11.08: Regular Hand-Washing Can Reduce Risk Of Flu

"We should prepare for the onslaught of the cold and flu season. Cleaning our hands regularly throughout the day as well as wearing masks can help keep you out of the doctor's office or the emergency room," doctors say.

Teachers are one group that does understand the importance of hand washing, suggests a separate survey conducted during the 2008 National Education Association Expo in Washington, D.C., the SDA said. The survey of 230 teachers found that 97 percent knew that washing hands is the best way to prevent colds and flu, and 91 percent always or frequently clean their hands before eating lunch.

Other methods of protection against flu include vaccination and wearing masks.