Treatment for an infection is one of the most common reasons people visit Houston emergency rooms. There are many treatments that can cure infections. At the same time, prevention is better than cure. There are many steps that people can take to avoid infections. Knowing how to avoid getting infected in the first place is the best way to stave off an emergency room visit.
Where do We Pick Them Up?
One of the best ways to avoid infections in the first place is by knowing where they are likely to be found. While many people imagine that infections largely stem from sneezing, such is not the case in all instances. In general, there are four types of infections. People can get an air-borne illness. They can also get sick as a result of being touched, eating contaminated food or an injury. Awareness of how such infections spread can help you avoid getting sick.
Cleaning Infections
Accidents happen all the time. A single wrong turn and anyone can break the skin. The key to making sure the infection does not spread is caring for it properly from the very start. If you or someone in your gets injured, it’s imperative to wash any wounds quickly. Removing all potentially infectious material should be done as soon as possible. Once this is completed, put an antibiotic ointment on the wound and then bandage it carefully. Do not pick at the scab that forms. This will only delay healing and possibly cause infection. Signs of an infection include pain, discoloration, discharge and inflammation. If you see these signs, it’s best to seek immediate medical attention before any further problems develop.
Eating Safely
Safe eating starts with safe food handling. All ingredients should be washed and fresh. Throw out any expired foods. All raw meat and any other form of protein should be cooked to the proper temperature to avoid contamination. Throw out moldy food and foods that are clearly rotting. If in doubt, remove the parts that look bad. Keep all raw meat away from other items you’re eating. Separate cutting boards are a must. Preparing meat first will ensure that you’re not contaminating it with the other items you are eating. After you’ve finished, then you can bring out the other dishes you’re going to serve at the same meal.
Getting Vaccinated
Vaccination is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your overall health. One of the most crucial of all vaccinations is an annual flu shot. Flu shots are traditionally given before the start of flu season. Each fall, you’ll see signs offering flu shots. Now is the time to get your shot. The vaccine will not prevent you from getting a flu infection. However, it will reduce your risk of getting sick and spreading it to others. The vaccine will also ensure that if you do get the flu, you are at decreased risk of getting really sick from it.
Standard Hygiene
Proper attention to all aspects of basic hygiene is another easy thing you can do avoid infection. If you feel the need to sneeze or cough, cover your hands to avoid infecting others. Clean your hands many times each day. Using antimicrobial soap provides an additional layer of protection. Be careful when sharing food and drink. Teach your children to follow these simple rules both at home and when they’re in school.
Practicing healthy habits is the best course of action. These easy instructions will keep you and everyone around you healthy all year long.