BODY WATCH : Sharing Isn’t Always the Best Policy

Children are encouraged to share, but this time of year when they are little coughing and sneezing machines, sharing can lead to the spread of viruses. Dr. Luis Pacheco, medical director of California Hospital Medical Center’s Family Health Center, recommends that parents review the following preventive measures with their children:

* Avoid sharing toothpaste with other family members.

* Avoid sharing food, snacks and candy from the same plate.

* Wash hands frequently, especially after playing with shared toys at school.

* Cover mouth with tissues when sneezing or coughing, then discard the tissue promptly and properly.

* Drink plenty of juice or water (six to eight glasses daily).

* Use disposable cups or prepackaged boxed drinks.

* Avoid rubbing eyes, nose or mouth, particularly after touching public objects such as doorknobs or jungle gyms.