The Massachusetts Dental Society Shares Flu Season Tips: Prevent the Spread of the Flu and Keep Your Mouth Healthy, Too

SOUTHBOROUGH, Mass..—Nov. 20, 2019—The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on a call with doctors this week that the United States is seeing more cases of the flu than is typical for this time of year, with30 states already seeing flu activity—including Massachusetts. According to experts, when influenza is off to an early start, it can sometimes mean a more severe flu season.While theCDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most crucial step in protecting against influenza and its potentially serious complications, it ’s also important to take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.“By following some basic precautions, you and your family can stay physically healthy this season, while also maintaining good oral health,” saidMassachusetts Dental Society (MDS) President Janis Moriarty, DMD.Washing your hands frequently during any time of the year is important. But the MDS recommends that you also practice good hand hygiene when it comes to brushing and flossing your teeth.“Germs on your hands can easily be transmitted to your toothbrush and then to your mouth,” Dr. Moriarty said. “It’s important to wash your hands before and after brushing your teeth and flossing. Most people don’t realize that viruses and bacteria can live on your toothbrush.”According to the CDC, the flu virus can live on moist surfaces for 72 hours.“Since toothbrushes are breeding grounds for bacteria, they should be kept isol...
Source: Dental Technology Blog - Category: Dentistry Source Type: news