Now that the “coof” is over, it seems a reoccurrence is predicted for the Fall. I hope not, but it’s best to be better prepared this time – start by learning the difference between a droplet or an aerosol. This should give you peace of mind that you CAN prevent catching a virus, like a cold or the flu. Or the coof.
Droplets
Viruses spread, which is what makes them contagious.
When someone coughs or sneezes, millions of droplets of mucus and saliva spray from their mouths. Eew.
If someone coughs or sneezes, their droplets can land on you. If you’re close by, infected droplets from a cold or the flu can enter your body through your nose, mouth, or eyes. This is the most common way people catch a cold or the flu.
If infected droplets land on a surface, they do evaporate, but they leave behind the virus particles. The surfaces, such as doorknobs or public kiosk touchscreens, are called fomites. If you touch a fomite and then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes, you can transfer the virus particles into your body.
This is why it’s sooooo important to regularly wash your hands with soap and water, or use a hand sanitizer if you’re not near a sink, after touching fomites.
It’s also important to rinse your sinuses with a Neti pot or do a saline nasal flush whenever you feel like you have been exposed to fomites.
This works – it really works to help prevent catching a cold or the flu.
Aerosols
Aerosols are airborne particles. Aerosols can stay airborne for an extended period of time before settling on a surface or landing on a nearby person.
Airborne diseases are bacteria or viruses that are most commonly transmitted through small respiratory, airborne droplets.
Because of their small size, aerosols contain fewer infectious virus particles, but after a long period of exposure, breathing in a large numbers of aerosols can add up and eventually cause an infection.
You might think that you’re coming down with a cold, but it’s just allergies. Allergies and reactions to environmental toxins are typically a result of exposure to an airborne aerosol.
The health tip here is to remove yourself from the source of exposure ASAP.
If another coof breaks out, remember the difference between a droplet and an airborne aerosol; this way you can prevent catching another virus – even if it’s just a common cold or the flu.
… maybe you’ve just got allergies …
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If you want to learn more about healthy living, contact me at janethull.com. Remember that you are never alone when you are looking for good health!
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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, and is educational in nature. The FDA may not have evaluated some of the statements. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please discuss with your own, qualified health care provider before adding supplements or making any changes to your dietary program.
Before taking vitamins, consult your doctor; pre-existing medical conditions or medications you are taking can affect how your body responds to multivitamins.
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