1. Preventing the spread of germs, colds and flu around the workplace.
Germ Warfare
Preventing the spread of germs, colds and flu around the workplace.

2. Cold & Flu Season Is Here
Many experts agree the office just may be the worst for spreading germs!
Office equipment can harbor viruses & bacteria
What places in the offices do you think are germ hot spots?

3. Top Germ Hot Spots 5. Blackberry (PDA)
4. Office refrigerator (and other places in the office kitchen)
3. Candy dish in the “gathering place”
2. Your telephone
1. The FAX machine

4. Germ Warfare Checklist
1. Wash your hands – thoroughly and often
2. Clean your desktop
3. Enforce rules to keep the office kitchen germ free
4. Get a flu shot

5. Wash Your Hands
Proper hand washing is one of the most important steps in preventing illnesses, colds & flu
80% of infections are spread by the hands
20 seconds of scrubbing
with warm water & soap
You can sing a fun song
to ensure you are
washing long enough
Happy birthday twice!

6. Wash Your Hands
An alcohol-based hand sanitizer, like the one given out at this program, can also be used.
Not to replace hand washing
Use if you do not have access to soap & water
Keep in briefcase, purse or pocket
Cover your coughs &
sneezes with your sleeve
Germs are caught in fabric
Germs are not airborne
or on hands

7. Clean Your Desktop
Wipe desktop & office equipment with disinfectant wipes
Wipe desk, telephone, keyboard, mouse, door handles, buttons, etc
Germs can last up to 2 days,
so wipe down hot spots every
couple days
“Canned air” sprays help
remove crumbs on keyboard

8. Clean Your Desktop
Keep desk surface clean, especially if you eat there
Wrap & dispose of uneaten food immediately
Don’t store leftovers in
your desk
Be sure to wash hands
before & after eating
Use hand sanitizer if you
can’t get to a sink

9. Enforce Office Kitchen Rules
No food left in refrigerator (or anywhere else) overnight
Wash dishes with hot, soapy water right away – don’t leave overnight
Heat moist sink sponge in microwave to kill bacteria
Use paper towels
& discard after using
Clean coffee pot at
least once a week

10. Get a Flu Shot – FREE! The flu shot does not give you the flu
COVA Care, COVA
HDHP & covered
family members get
free shot or nasal spray
DHRM website:
Wellness benefit pays
100% for flu vaccinations
at doctor’s offices

11. What if you still get sick?
Colds & flu are viruses
Antibiotics treat infections, not viruses
REST & drink plenty of fluids
If symptoms worsen
contact doctor
Stay home & prevent
spread of illness to
co-workers

12. CommonHealth Germ Warfare Reminders!
Wash your hands thoroughly and often
Use hand sanitizer
Cough into your sleeve
Clean your office area, including the kitchen
Get a Flu Vaccine

13. Questions? www.commonhealth.virginia.gov
Please visit the CommonHealth website for more information & great resources

14. Thank You for participating!
Have a healthy day!