GERMSGERMS …they are not our friends By FRED A. TEGA, MD

Some kids think that germs are — bugs — cooties — other gross stuff. Actually, germs are tiny organisms, or living things, that can cause diseases. Germs are so small and sneaky that they creep into our bodies without being noticed.

They are so tiny … you need to use a microscope to see them. When they get in our bodies, they can make us sick!

Types of Germs There are four major types of germs: a. bacteria b. viruses c. Fungi d. protozoa. They can invade plants, animals, and people, and sometimes they make us sick.

Where Are Germs Found? Germs are found all over the world, in all kinds of places.

Germs worst hiding places Work desk Kitchen sink Dishcloth, sponge Garbage can Refrigerator Bathroom Bathroom doorknob Keyboards Escalator handrails Shopping cart handles Picnic tables Light switches Remote controls Toys Bathroom cups Pens, pencils and crayons Pet cages

How do we spread Germs? Most germs are spread through the air –sneezes, coughs, breaths, –and also by touch.

How do we spread Germs? Germs can also spread in sweat, saliva, blood.

How do we spread Germs? Touching something that is contaminated, like shaking hands with someone who has a cold and then touching your own nose. Person to person

What do Germs do? Once germs enter our bodies: 1.They snuggle in for a long stay. 2.They gobble up nutrients and energy, and can produce toxins, which are like poisons. 3.Those toxins can cause symptoms of common infections, like fevers, sniffles, rashes, coughing, vomiting, and diarrhea.

They make us sick Germs…

Germs can cause fever

Germs can also cause cough

Germs can cause rashes too

We have to ACT

How Can You Protect Yourself From Germs? Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze and cover your mouth when you cough to keep from spreading germs.

Use tissues for your sneezes and sniffles. Always Use Tissue But don't just throw tissues on the floor. Toss them in the trash and, again, wash your hands!

Germs do not like soap and water Wash Your Hands

Remember the two words germs fear — soap and water. Washing your hands well and often is the best way to beat these tiny warriors.

So when are the best times to wash your hands? Before eating or touching food (like if you're helping cook or bake, for example)

So when are the best times to wash your hands? After using the bathroom

So when are the best times to wash your hands? After coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose

So when are the best times to wash your hands? After touching pets or other animals

So when are the best times to wash your hands? After playing outside

So when are the best times to wash your hands? After visiting a sick relative or friend

Germs are everywhere Sneezing —cover your nose Coughing — cover your mouth Best defense — wash hands with soap and water — hand sanitizer Remember: