Did you know germs can last up to 72 hours on some surfaces? Unclean surfaces are how germs spread... at least, it's one way. 

How do germs breed? How do clean your hands and using hand sanitizer helps prevent germs from spreading? In this article, we'll cover these topics as well as how physical touch can spread germs.

We'll also discuss how you can stay safe from germs while using public transportation. Keep reading to learn about how germs spread and how you can prevent them from spreading. 

How Do Germs Spread? 

Most germs spread through an uncovered cough or sneeze. Some germs may even spread through something as simple and natural as breathing. Germs can also spread via blood, sweat, or saliva. 

A lot of germs transfer from person to person, too. And, it isn't always easy to avoid physical contact with someone. But there are a few ways you can stay safe and avoid physical contact. 

How to Prevent the Spread of Germs

There are many ways you can protect others and yourself from spreading germs. You likely learned this in kindergarten, but cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough. You can use your elbow, sleeve, or a kleenex. 

Practice washing your hands and keeping them clean. Clean hands are one of the first steps to keeping yourself healthy during flu season or a pandemic. Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds at a time and use warm water and soap. 

If you're out in public, you aren't always able to wash your hands. That's why using hand sanitizer is the next best thing. You can keep a small bottle in your pocket, purse, or backpack when you're not at home. 

Using public transportation may be frightening for some people regardless of germs or not. But, there are a few ways to protect yourself from germs while using public transit. Bring hand sanitizer, wear a mask and wear disposable gloves for extra protection. 

How to Wash Your Hands 

Many people think they understand how to wash their hands... but do you know how to wash them properly? There are plenty of infographics and step-by-step instructions available online to teach your proper handwashing. But we've created our own:

1. Wet your hands with water
2. Apply soap
3. Cover your hands with soap and rub them together for about 20 seconds
4. Rinse your hands with water 
5. Dry your hands with a paper towel 
6. Turn the tap off using the paper towel

If you don't have access to soap or water, you can use a hand sanitizer. 

How Germs Spread: What You Need to Know 

It's important to learn how germs spread so you can understand how to protect yourself. Once you've learned how germs spread, you can keep yourself and your family safe. 

You can prevent germs by washing your hands often and using hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer works great if you don't have access to warm water and soap and can't wash your hands.

Remember to sanitize frequently touched surfaces within your home as often as possible. Check out our website to learn how to keep yourself safe from germs while using public transit.