why is that? and what would you do to prevent it from happening?
2006-11-19 07:08:40 · 6 answers · asked by Physiologist 3 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Infectious Diseases
The best prevention for this is HANDWASHING.
The other thing you could do it to wipe all handles to doors and or cabinets in your house with alcohol. Make sure toothbrushes stay apart if you share a toothbrush holder with them. Switch your toothbrush often if you feel that you should.
Wash their dishes separately from yours for a while. Change pillowcases often if you share a bed.
It's not always true that you'll pick up the flu from someone you are living with. It all depends on how you handle not only the person that is ill, but things that involve that person. Like as I said, their dishes, linens, toothbrush, door knobs etc. I hope this helps.
If it is a child and you are the one wiping the nose and doing all of that for them, WASH YOUR HANDS EVERY TIME. This is by far, the best prevention of the spread of anything.
2006-11-19 07:55:03 · answer #1 · answered by Doodlebug 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
If you're referring to Influenza:
This is transmitted through the air. It is a respiratory infection. Chances are you will be infected. Symptoms include increased temperature, cough, chest soreness, general aches & pains, chills.
(I work in a hospital & we have to wear masks if providing care for these patients.) Try to avoid breathing in the same air as the person. Have a window open. This lasts for one to several weeks.
If your referring to Gastroenteritis: (many people call this the "24 hour flu bug")
You will not be infected if you wash your hands frequently. This is spread by the fecal-oral route (most commonly someone not washing their hands after using toilet & then touching something that another places in their mouth).
Symptoms are diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, feeling crappy that persist for 24 hours or a little longer.
2006-11-19 16:58:08 · answer #2 · answered by Daiquiri Dream 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It is not true that you would absolutely get it. It depends on many things. If you have a strong immune system it can fight it off and you won't get sick. Also depends on how close the contact is with you and that person. If you are looking after them and coming in close contact the chances are higher.
As far as preventing it the best advice is to wash your hands more often and limit your contact with that person until they are no longer contagious.
2006-11-19 15:31:27 · answer #3 · answered by Sue P 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
more than likely you will get it as being in close contact with someone who is sick will generally cause you to catch whatever bug he or she had. To try and prevent getting sick boost up on vitamins and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Better yet go and get a flu shot
2006-11-19 15:34:47 · answer #4 · answered by gypsy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Probably, but if you follow the suggestions of the good answers here, might help keep you from it. The only thing I'd add, is to wash their dishes with a cap or two of bleach in the water, and make sure you don't pick up a glass they've used and drink after them.
2006-11-19 17:07:49 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Not all people get the flu just because they are living with someone that has it.
2006-11-19 16:33:46 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋