Germs and Hygiene: How Germs Spread and How to Stop Them

What germs are

Germs are microorganisms — too small to see without a microscope. They're everywhere: in the air, soil and water, and on and in our bodies. Many live in and on us without causing harm, and some even help keep us healthy. But some make us sick. Diseases caused by germs are infectious diseases, and the main types of germ are bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites.

How germs spread

• Close contact with an infected person — touching, kissing, hugging, or sharing cups or utensils.
• Breathing air after an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• Touching an infected person's feces — changing a diaper, for example — then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Touching contaminated objects and surfaces, then your eyes, nose or mouth.
• From mother to baby during pregnancy or childbirth.
• Insect or animal bites.
• Contaminated food, water, soil or plants.

How to protect yourself and others

• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of your elbow.
• Wash your hands well and often, scrubbing for at least 20 seconds — especially:
• • before, during and after preparing food, and before eating;
  • before and after caring for someone sick with vomiting or diarrhea, or treating a cut or wound;
  • after using the toilet, changing diapers or helping a child who used the toilet;
  • after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing;
  • after touching an animal, animal feed or waste, pet food or treats, or garbage.
• No soap and water? Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Stay home when you're sick, and avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Practice food safety when handling, cooking and storing food.
• Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.

Sources

Based on "Germs and Hygiene," MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine; a work of the United States government in the public domain.