This winter, we can all play our part to minimise the spread of germs and protect ourselves – and each other – from colds and bugs, meaning fewer sick days for everyone.
The ‘Simple Things’ campaign calls on parents, grandparents and carers to remind children to wash their hands before they eat, after they have been to the toilet and after they cough or sneeze.
It also asks them to teach their little ones to cough or sneeze into the crook of their elbow to help keep colds and bugs away.
Tips to encourage children to help stop the spread this winter
- Set an example to younger children by ensuring they see you wash your hands before cooking, eating and after using the toilet
- Teach children how to sneeze or cough into the crook of their elbow instead of into their hands, explaining how tiny droplets of germs can transfer onto their hands
- If you have particularly vulnerable relatives, such as grandparents who help with childcare, encourage your children to be extra vigilant with their handwashing when around them
- If you’re visiting loved ones in hospital, make sure you are feeling well beforehand and that you and your children wash your hands thoroughly both before and after your visit.
The ‘Simple Things’ campaign is now also targeting young people, aged 13 to 20, for the first time. With winter bugs potentially lurking on mobiles, earpods, and game controllers, young people are being encouraged to keep themselves and others well this winter by focusing on these three simple things:
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid touching your face
- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
Cllr Christine Bannon, Knowsley Council Cabinet Member for Health, said:
“As the colder weather sets in, it’s important to remember that the simple things still mean a lot to keep us all healthy and happy this winter.
“We can all play our part to minimise the spread of germs and protect ourselves – and each other – from colds and bugs, meaning fewer sick days for everyone.
“Our little ones can help too, which is why parents and grandparents are being urged to encourage their children to wash their hands to help prevent the spread of winter illnesses.
“And we’re urging our young people to be vigilant about germs that can cling to their devices, remembering that simple acts like frequent hand washing and avoiding touching their face make a huge difference in staying healthy.”
To find out more, visit: https://www.simplethings-nhs.com/