The Texas Department of State Health Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are monitoring the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Visit their websites for the most current information. Please continue to take steps with your families to prevent the spread of germs.
Life is Better with Clean Hands
Handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family from getting sick.
Handwashing can help prevent illness. It involves five simple and effective steps you can take to reduce the spread of diarrhea and respiratory illness so you can stay healthy. Help youself and your loved one stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially during the key times when you are likely to get and spread germs.
Follow these five steps every time.
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your ahnds, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
Key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:
- Before, during, and after preparing food
- Before eating food
- Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea
- Before and after treating a cut or wound
- After using the toilet
- After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
- After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
- After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
- After handling pet food or pet treats
- After touching garbage
Simple steps everyone can take to prevent spreading diseases:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, if soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
What you should know:
Public Information about COVID-19:
For more information ro questions, contact:
DSHS COVID-19 Call Center: 1-800-570-9779
Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday – Friday
Waller County Local Health Entity – Public Health Region 06/05S:
Carlos Plasencia, MD, MSPH