Respiratory Hygiene

Background

Respiratory hygiene or cough etiquette is a way to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses like the flu or the common cold. By covering coughs and sneezes and keeping our hands clean, we can prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses. When you cough or sneeze, droplets containing germs are released into the air and can land in the mouths and noses of other people. Germs can also be spread if you touch your face with unwashed hands after touching contaminated surfaces or objects.

 

 

 

Educational Resources

VDH Infection Prevention and Control Assessments: The HAI/AR team is available to conduct a no-cost, non-regulatory, onsite visit to help a facility identify its infection prevention strengths and areas of opportunity.

Department of Veterans Affairs

Virginia Healthcare-Associated Infections Advisory Group

Virginia Infection Prevention Training Center

 

 

 

Setting-Specific Resources

Respiratory hygiene resources specific to clinic settings: 

Dental Settings

View Clinics homepage

Respiratory hygiene resources specific to long-term care settings:

View Long-Term Care Homepage

Last Updated: October 16, 2024