Easy ways to get protection from infection

We’ve just updated our KJSA section on infectious diseases, so please have a look if you want to know…

• …Which infectious diseases are most prevalent in Kirklees and across the world;
• …How you can protect yourself and others against infection;
• …What we are doing in Kirklees to minimise rates of infection.

The section has a particular focus on tuberculosis (TB), as rates of TB in Kirklees are much higher than the regional and national averages.

Jane O’Donnell, Head of Health Protection at Kirklees Council, said: “There are some easy things you can do to help prevent you getting an infection or vaccine preventable disease, these include washing your hands regularly, not sharing towels and household items like cups. Always cover your mouth, preferably with a disposable tissue, when coughing, or sneezing. Stay away from work, school or college until 48 hour symptoms free if you have a gastro intestinal infection to prevent the spread. An easy way to also prevent the spread of vaccine preventable diseases is to ensure you are up to date with the eligible vaccines. GPs don’t recommend antibiotics for viruses e.g. colds because they won’t relieve your symptoms or speed up your recovery. The KJSA section includes the latest information about this topic.”