NORTHEAST OHIO (Dec. 8 2011) — Twenty thousand children under the age of five are hospitalized each year in the United States with flu-related complications, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Those with long-term health conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease are at an even greater risk, however, the elderly also need to be concerned about flu-systems turning into more serious health issues. The CDC has selected this week as National Influenza Vaccination Week. If you haven’t received your flu shot this year, this is the week to do so.
“We have so many options to prevent the spread of disease as well as taking advantage of the readily available flu vaccine,” said Margie Toombs, co-owner of Maid Brigade of Northeast Ohio. “The solutions are available; it is a matter of effectively spreading information rather than disease.”
Maid Brigade, the leading green cleaning services company, offers five green cleaning tips and healthy habits that will help the spread of infection and disease.
1. Wash hands with warm, soapy water for at least 15 seconds. Use a paper towel to shut off the faucet and open bathroom doors when using a public restroom.
2. Use natural ingredients such as vinegar and water to clean and disinfect your home. Cleaning with natural ingredients rather than toxic chemicals typically found in commercial cleaners is a healthy alternative for your family.
3. Stay hydrated. Drink fluids such as water, tea and broth which are low in calories and are a healthy alternative to sodas and lattes.
4. Frequently wipe down door knobs, telephones, lamps, toys and counter surfaces. According to the CDC, flu viruses, including H1N1, can survive between 24 to 48 hours on non-porous surfaces like doorknobs or desks.
5. Limit contact with friends and family who have flu symptoms. If you or your children exhibit flu-like symptoms, stay at home to rest and avoid the spread of germs to students and co-workers.
The CDC offers more tips to avoid the flu this holiday season. Visit their website at www.cdc.gov/flu. For more information on green cleaning tips visit our Maid Brigade website.
About Maid Brigade of Northeast Ohio
Ray and Margie Toombs are long time residents in the Akron/Canton area and have been proud local business owners since 2003. Margie is the former head of quality advancement for the Precision Steel Components business of the Timken Company, and Ray is a retired U.S. Army Officer. Maid Brigade provides quality GREEN cleaning with trained, bonded associates. Providing cleaning services for both residential and commercial properties, Maid Brigade is available for regular on-going cleaning or a one time service. Call Today for a free estimate: 330-453-6000 or 330-908-0099.