As cold season begins, it's important to remember that regular cleaning and disinfecting household surfaces can reduce the spread of cold-causing germs. Although we know that personal hygiene plays a role in good health, we don't generally think about household surfaces in the spread of infectious diseases.
Surfaces play a major role in transmission of germs among children in group care situations.
Some germs are easily transferred from surfaces to hands, and then, by touching, to our eyes, nose, or mouth. Contaminated surfaces also transfer bacteria, like salmonella, by direct contact with food or from hand to food during food preparation. Regular cleaning and proper disinfecting are two simple ways to reduce the spread of disease. Wash surfaces with a detergent solution, and rinse with water. Then apply the disinfecting solution with a paper towel, and allow to air dry.