The flu can spell trouble for older people and for the people who take care of them. According to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 90 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths and 50 to 60 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations in the U.S. occur in people 65 years and older.
Fortunately, you can help protect yourselves by minimizing the spread of flu germs at home. The flu virus can survive up to 72 hours on surfaces such as doorknobs, according to the CDC. A recent study found a strain of the flu virus was present on 60% of common household items in homes with just one sick person in the home.
The best way to control germs is to practice healthy hygiene habits. Here are two simple steps you can take:
1. Wipe it down
To kill 99.9% of the germs* on hard, nonporous surfaces that can cause colds and flu, use a disinfecting bleach solution or disinfecting wipes as directed to wipe down household surfaces most touched at home:
- Phone receivers
- Doorknobs
- Refrigerator handles
- Toy storage bins
- Light switches
- Faucets