Preventive medicine focuses on keeping you healthy instead of waiting to treat illness after it starts. In our family medical practice, we see firsthand how quickly germs can spread within households.
At Macomb Medical Clinic, P.C., in Sterling Heights, Michigan, family medicine physician Mark Rosenberg, DO, and our experienced team help families reduce their risk of passing illnesses back and forth. With a few simple habits, you can keep everyone in your home healthier year-round.
Handwashing is one of the most effective ways to stop germs from spreading. Make it a routine for every family member to wash their hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before eating, after using the bathroom, after coughing or sneezing, and when coming home from school, work, or errands.
Keep hand sanitizer in high-traffic areas for quick use when soap and water aren’t available.
It’s tempting for kids (and even adults) to share cups, utensils, towels, or grooming items. Unfortunately, those items can carry bacteria and viruses from one person to another. Designate individual cups, toothbrushes, water bottles, and towels for each family member. If you use reusable water bottles or utensils, wash them thoroughly after every use.
Germs can live on surfaces for hours or even days, depending on the virus or bacteria. Wipe down high-touch areas such as doorknobs, light switches, faucet handles, phones, and remote controls at least once a day when someone in the household is sick.
Use disinfectants that are proven to kill viruses and bacteria. Encourage older children to help with this routine so it becomes part of the family’s daily habits.
Covering coughs and sneezes is critical. Teach children to cough or sneeze into a tissue or the inside of their elbow instead of their hands. Dispose of tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward. If someone in the family is ill, consider wearing a mask indoors when close contact is unavoidable, especially if another household member has a weakened immune system.
A strong immune system helps the body fight off infections more effectively. Prioritize adequate sleep, regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and stress management for every family member. Encourage meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Staying up to date on recommended vaccinations also plays a key role in preventing the spread of contagious diseases.
If a family member feels unwell, whether it’s a cold, the flu, or another contagious illness, keep them home from school, work, or group activities until they are no longer contagious. This prevents spreading the illness to others inside and outside the home.
Even the best at-home habits can’t replace the value of professional medical guidance. Scheduling regular check-ups allows us to monitor your family’s health, catch issues early, and provide timely recommendations for staying well.
At Macomb Medical Clinic, we partner with families to create personalized preventive care plans that fit their needs. Together, we can keep everyone healthier and stop illnesses from making endless rounds in your household.
Make preventive care a priority. Call our office to schedule an appointment today.
