How to Sneeze Properly

Many germs are spread through the air when a classmate or co-worker sneezes, and sneezing on someone is perhaps one of the easiest ways to give them your cold. Minimizing the spread of germs when you sneeze will go a long way in preventing the spread of germs.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Facial Tissues

1. Be prepared. If you have a cold, make sure you have lots of tissues.

2. Turn away from other people when you feel a sneeze coming on.

3. Use sturdy, fresh tissues to avoid getting the mucus on your hands.

4. If there are no tissues available, sneeze into your arm or elbow rather than your bare hands. This will help prevent the spread of germs.

5. When you start to sneeze, don't hold it back. Let the air explode out into a tissue. Trying to suppress a powerful sneeze can cause your inner ears to pop or can spray bacteria into your sinuses and ears.

6. Wash your hands after wiping or blowing your nose.

Tips & Warnings

• If possible, avoid crowds and close contact with other people when you have a cold.