Clean Hands

Did you know that one of the best ways to stop the spread of colds and flu is by washing your hands?

This is really important if you are taking an immuno-suppressive medication for your iBD like

Enbrel, Remicade, Humira or Prednisone

These medications can lower your body’s ability to fight off colds, flu and infections. By keeping your hands clean, you can help to keep yourself cold and flu free.

What to Use

Soap and Water: If you are in a place where there is soap and water

Wet your hands with warm water and use lots of soap, at least 2 pumps if using a pump soap.
Rub your hands together to make a lather and get between your fingers and under your fingernails.
Keep rubbing your hands for 15-20 seconds –
imagine singing Happy Birthday twice. It’s longer than you think!
Rinse and dry hands well.

Hand Sanitizer: If there is no soap and water nearby, you can use hand sanitizer. Make sure that the hand sanitizer is alcohol-based. This will help to kill germs fast.

Pour or pump the hand sanitizer into the palm of your hand. Use a lot, at least 2 pumps.
Rub your hands together, getting between your fingers and under your fingernails.
Wave your hands gently in the air until dry.

On the Go:

Pack a travel size hand sanitizer in your backpack or keep one in your locker to use at school.
You can keep hand sanitizing gel packets in your pocket and in the car.
Spray hand sanitizers are ok too, just make sure to spray on plenty.

When to Use It