Quiz - Cold Wash

Children learn by example, and one of the best ways to instill a habit of handwashing in them is to create that same good habit in yourself. Why is handwashing so important? It helps prevent the spread of the germs that cause colds, including those common but nasty ones that take your child out of school and could potentially take you out of work if you catch them too.  Take our quiz to learn more:

1. What is the best thing children can do to prevent spreading or receiving the germs that cause colds?
 
A. Wash their hands
B. Not share cups, straws, and utensils with others
C. Keep their hands away from the nose, eyes, and mouth
D. Cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
E.  All of the above
 
2. In general, people are fairly good at washing their hands enough.
 
A. True
B.  False
 
3. For best results, children should rub soapy hands together for at least __ seconds. 
 
A. 5
B. 10
C. 15
D.  20

 
4. Parents should clean surfaces where they know they or their children have sneezed or coughed. They should also occasionally disinfect, which is different from standard cleaning because disinfectants contain:
 
A. More concentrated soap than regular cleaners
B. Mineral acids
C. Bacteria-killing ingredients
D.  A strong fragrance
 

5. The two most important household areas to clean and disinfect properly are the kitchen and the bathroom.
 
A. True
B. False

Answers:

1. E. All of the above. When covering their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, children should not use their hands. If no tissue is immediately available, it’s better for kids to sneeze or cough into their shirt at the elbow or shoulder.

2. B. False. Hands should be washed more frequently than most people actually do. It helps to remember that bacteria and germs can’t be seen with the naked eye, and can be anywhere.

3. D. 20. Children should try to wash all areas—wrists, palms, back of hands, between fingers, and under the fingernails.

4. C. Bacteria-killing ingredients. After cleaning with soap and water, use a disinfectant on the surface. Some manufacturers will recommend that you let it sit for a few minutes before wiping dry.

5. A.  True. Bacteria from raw food can contaminate surfaces in the kitchen. Bathrooms, along with changing areas for babies and toddlers, also require proper cleaning to minimize the spread of germs.



Source: The Health Library at www.sjchs.org/health-library. Visit us to learn more about your body and your health.