1. Healthy Habits to Keep Your Body Safe!

2. What are Germs?
You may know some infectious diseases. Vaccines and medicines help prevent diseases from spreading.
Germs can cause diseases.
Germs can live in or on:
Dirt
Water
Countertops
Our Skin
Our Intestines
And in many other places around us
When germs find a place they like, they set up a home for themselves (1)
Adapted from the Infectious Disease Brochure:

3. Types of germs & diseases
Viruses:
-Flu
-Hepatitis
-Chickenpox
-Rabies
-Common Cold
-HIV/AIDS
Bacteria:
-Salmonella
-Tetanus
-Tuberculosis
-Anthrax
-Plague
Fungi:
-Thrush
-Ringworm
-Candida
-Athlete’s Foot
Parasites:
-Amoebas
-Tapeworms
-Malaria
Prions:
-Mad Cow Disease

4. How do Germs spread?
There are several ways that germs can spread. We catch an infectious disease when we are first exposed to a germ. Our bodies are very good at fighting infections, but sometimes we can get sick. Just because you’ve been exposed to a germ, doesn’t necessarily mean you will get sick.
The most common ways people are exposed to germs is through TOUCHING, EATING or DRINKING, BREATHING, and GETTING BITTEN.
Germs can be spread through the air. This usually happens when people cough, sneeze, or even by talking.
Animals carry and spread diseases. Wild animal bites or even pet and insect bites can carry harmful germs and make us sick.
Unwashed fruits and vegetables and foods not cooked properly can also carry harmful germs as well. (2)
(2) Adapted from the Infectious Disease Brochure:

5. Things I can do to keep my body safe
Don’t Share Personal Items With Others
Stay Home When You’re Sick
Cover Your Mouth When You Cough or Sneeze!
Get Vaccinated!
Wash Your Hands OFTEN!