Holidays are a time for family, friends, laughter — and lots of togetherness. With everyone gathering, it’s easy for germs to spread right along with the cheer. This year, let’s make a conscious choice to spread joy, not germs.
These simple, family-friendly tips for ways you can “Spread Joy, Not Germs” this year are brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
1. Make Handwashing a Habit
Kids touch everything — door handles, toys, shopping carts, party treats — and those germs can spread fast.
Encourage everyone in your home to:
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Wash hands with warm water and soap for 20 seconds
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Wash before eating, after using the bathroom, and after coughing or sneezing
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Keep hand sanitizer handy- in the car, backpacks, and diaper bags
Make it fun for the kids: sing a favorite holiday chorus while scrubbing!
2. Keep High-Touch Surfaces Clean
During the holidays, homes fill with visitors, shared snacks, and extra activity. Germs love countertops, remotes, light switches, sink handles, and phones. Wipe surfaces regularly, especially before and after gatherings or playdates.
It doesn’t have to be perfect — just consistent.
3. Stay Home When You’re Sick
It’s hard to make the choice to miss out on holiday parties or traditions. But keeping your germs at home is the easiest way to ensure you don’t spread them to others.
If you are out and about and have a little cough or the a case of the sniffles, always be sure to cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or your elbow!
4. Stay Up-to-Date on Recommended Vaccines
Vaccines help protect your family during a season when flu and other respiratory illnesses tend to spread more easily. Staying up-to-date helps keep gatherings safe for grandparents, new babies, and immunocompromised loved ones.
If your family needs a medical provider or vaccine appointment, you can always reach the Tuscarawas County Health Department for support. (Call the TCHD Medical Office to make an appointment at 330-343-5555, ext. 1810.)
Making Healthy Holidays Easy
You can find more helpful tips and resources here: https://www.tchdnow.org/spread-joy-not-germs.html
Small habits such as Handwashing and sanitizing make a big difference in keeping holiday traditions joyful — and keeping your family healthy. Together, let’s make this season full of warmth, laughter, and moments that matter.