Ways to Avoid Germs    [12-11-2010] Did you know that germs are everywhere? You will be shocked to know how close they are. Germs, bacteria, and viruses can be very dangerous. They often make people sick. Many scientists found that they are linked to heart disease and cancer. In some serious cases, they can even kill people. So, how can you avoid harmful germs and bacteria? It is especially important to learn how to avoid germs in the flu season to stay healthy. You don’t want to fall sick, do you? Then, read carefully and learn some easy but effective ways to fight against germs. Follow the useful tips to minimize your chances of picking up bad germs! 1. Be careful of what you touch: You may be surprised to know how dangerous shopping cart handles, elevator buttons, and escalator handrails could be. In an elevator, the first-floor button harbors the most germs because more people touch it than any other button. Use your elbow instead of your finger to press the button. Shopping cart handles are also responsible for spreading germs. Use a germ-killing towelette to sanitize the cart handle. Escalator handrails are loaded with germs, too. Make sure to wash your hands after touching them. 2. Playgrounds are not safe: Playing in the playground is a lot of fun. But playgrounds are breeding grounds for germs and bacteria. This is because slides, swings, and seesaws are mostly used by small children, who rarely wash their hands. Avoid picnic tables and benches in playgrounds as well because they are full of germs, too. 3. Don’t hold your friends’ hands if they've caught a cold: Try to avoid hand shaking and hand holding during the flu season. If you hold someone’s hand who has the flu virus on their hands, you may also come down with the flu! 4. Make sure to wash your hands frequently: The most important way to prevent germs is to wash your hands often and correctly. After using the bathroom, eating or playing outdoors, wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 15 to 20 seconds. You should also wash your hands after playing with pets, coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose. 5. Keep your desk clean: Did you know that your desk is dirtier than the toilet? Your desk may have 400 times the amount of bacteria than the average toilet seat! Try not to eat at your desk or while using the computer. Wipe out your desk and computer keyboard often to keep them clean and stay away from harmful germs.     출처: 어린이 영자신문 키즈타임즈 (www.kidstimes.net)