Tips for Caregivers

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Caring for Someone Sick at Home

December 5, 2009, 6:00 AM ET

When caring for people who have the flu:

• Avoid being face to face with the sick person. If possible, it is best to spend the least amount of time in close contact with a sick person.
• When holding sick children, place their chin on your shoulder so they will not cough in your face.
• Wash your hands often and the right way. Sing the "Happy Birthday" song two times or count slowly to 20 as you wash.
• If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Make sure to wash your hands after touching the sick person. Wash after handling their tissues or laundry.