Two hands holding with germs on them

Infection Prevention

Germs are everywhere. You can help stop the spread of germs. Follow these tips to keep yourself and your family healthy. To stay healthy, be sure to follow these tips regularly, not just when someone is sick.

What can you do to stay healthy?

Wash your hands:

  • Before you eat.
  • After you use the washroom.
  • After you change a diaper.
  • After you touch an animal.
  • When they look dirty.

Use hand sanitizer often. If your hands look dirty you should wash them.

Cough or sneeze in your upper arm or your elbow or use a tissue.

This includes items such as:

  • Drinks
  • Towels
  • Toothbrushes
  • Forks
  • Spoons

This includes:

  • Door handles
  • Phones
  • Taps

You should do this often when you or someone is sick.

Some signs you are sick include:

  • Sudden fever
  • Respiratory symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties.
  • Vomiting
  • Runny stool

Stay home for at least 24 hours after you start feeling better.

  • Get your flu shot every year.
  • Make sure your children have all their vaccines and boosters.

  • Wash your hands before you touch any food.
  • Wash your fruits and veggies before you eat them.
  • Cook you meat to the proper temperature.
  • Keep raw food away from cooked food.
  • Only drink safe water.
  • Clean and sanitize your cutting board after you use it.

  • Eat healthy food.
  • Exercise.
  • Do not smoke.
  • Get enough sleep during the night.

Handwashing steps

Hand sanitizing steps

Contact us

Health Department - Durham Health Connection Line
Health Protection Division
101 Consumers Drive
Whitby, Ontario L1N 1C4
Telephone (within regional limits): 311
Fax: 905-666-6214
Email the Health Department
Map this location

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