What can be done to prevent spread of infection when a roommate is ill with pandemic flu?
• Keep personal items of all roommates separate. Avoid sharing common items such as computers, pens, eating utensils, towels and shavers. • Disinfect doorknobs, switches, handles and other surfaces that are commonly touched. • Use detergent and very hot water when washing dishes or laundry if any of your roommates is ill with pandemic flu. Clean cooking surfaces, counter tops and sinks regularly. Wash your hands after handling dirty laundry. • Wear disposable gloves when in contact with or cleaning up body fluids. Gloves should be properly disposed of after being in contact with body fluids. Cleansing hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer after discarding gloves is recommended. • One person should be the caregiver if possible. He or she would benefit by wearing a mask when caring for the ill.
