Guide for respiratory infections
Hygiene advice and urgent recommendations to protect against respiratory infections and prevent the spread of cold, coronavirus or influenza viruses
- When coughing or sneezing, keep at least 1.50 meters away from other people and turn away.
- It is best to sneeze or cough into a disposable handkerchief. Only use this once and then dispose of it. If a cloth handkerchief is used once, wash it afterwards at a temperature of at least 60°C.
- If you do not have a handkerchief to hand, hold the crook of your arm in front of your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing and turn away from other people.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after blowing your nose, sneezing or coughing!
- Refrain from shaking hands. Explain to the other person that this can prevent infection.
- Avoid close physical contact such as kissing and hugging if you are ill.
- Avoid crowds of people.
- If possible, people who are acutely ill should stay at home to recover and prevent the spread of pathogens.
- Ventilate your home frequently by opening windows.
- Use separate bedrooms if you are ill.
- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap.
- Do not share personal items such as towels, cosmetics, toothbrushes, make-up utensils, razor blades, eye drops or washcloths as well as crockery, cups, glasses or cutlery with others.
- Protect the elderly, do not put sick children in there!
- Avoid visiting elderly and immunocompromised people if you are ill yourself, but keep in touch, for example by telephone.
- Wear a face mask or an alternative barrier in front of your mouth and nose (e.g. made of fabric)
Source: www.infektionsschutz.de (as of 25.03.2020)