Sneezing is what the title of this post refers to and here is a link to an entertaining YouTube video, Why Don’t We
Do It In Our Sleeves that explains what I mean. Most people think that covering a sneeze (or cough for that matter) with one’s hand is conscientious, courteous and a sound technique for preventing the spread of germs. But, as the little video demonstrates, it is far from the best or even preferred method. Think about it for a minute, you sneeze into your hand and then use that same hand to turn a door knob, pick up the phone, greet a friend with a handshake, hmmm – well, you get the idea. What do you think?
Producer OtoRhinoLounsburgology Productions explains:
This five minute video was designed to encourage people to cough and sneeze according to the infection control guidelines put forth by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is aimed at the common citizen. Its message is serious, but it is presented with humor in such a way that it engages the viewer’s attention for a full five minutes while the message is repeated in interesting new ways. It can be enjoyed by individuals, but it is even more fun to watch in groups, resulting in community reinforcement. It has been used in hospitals and schools with great success. It actually makes people change the way they cough and sneeze.This video was produced with the assistance of three infectious disease doctors, two hospitals, and the Maine Medical Association, to whom the author is grateful. The author, Ben Lounsbury MD, is an Ear, Nose and Throat physician.
