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If the last time you cleaned your yoga mat was, well, never, you’re doing yourself a disservice. Yoga mats can be a major hub for odor-causing bacteria (thanks to the excess moisture left behind) if you don’t regularly give it a generous wipe down after your at-home or studio class. They absorb sweat, dirt and other particles from your body as you work out. However, the process of cleaning your yoga mat isn’t always as simple as throwing it in the washer or spritzing it with your go-to disinfectant.

For starters, not all yoga mats can be cleaned in the same way. Open-cell mats, like polyurethane foam mats, have a porous construction that allows them to better absorb sweat and moisture. While this design is great for hot yoga, it makes it easier for bacteria to remain inside and produce odors that are hard to remove with wipes or other cleaners. On the flip side, closed-cell mats are not porous and absorbent, so their surfaces are easier to clean.

However, no matter what mat you use for warrior pose and downward dog, cleaning your mat at least once a week is the golden rule, says yoga instructor and CEO and founder of The Zen Mommy, Jessica Gershman. But if your yoga practice is more intense, once a week may not be enough. “…If you practice every day or in a hot yoga style, I recommend cleaning your yoga mat more frequently using an all-natural water-based cleaner.” Gershman added, “I always try to use cleaners with non-toxic organic chemicals—especially if my face and body are going to be in close contact with the surface like a yoga mat.”

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For some of the best cleaners to get your mat looking new and smelling fresh again, check out some of these expert picks below.

Best yoga mat cleaners

Asutra Natural & Organic Yoga Mat Cleaner — $14.00

As far as beloved yoga mat cleaners go, this one is a yogi favorite — mainly because it won’t ruin your mat’s material. Its effectiveness comes from its use of tea tree (a strong essential oil that has antibacterial properties) and castile soap (a multi-purpose cleaner that’s gentle on the skin). This, combined with its calming lavender scent creates an effective but gentle recipe for removing sweat from your mat.

“I like the mat cleaner because it’s non-toxic and safe to use on my mat,” yoga instructor of four years Farah Jaffrey said. “It has natural ingredients so it’s not harsh and won’t ruin my mat’s texture. It’s well-balanced so it won’t leave your mat oily.”

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Concentrate Bottle (2-Pack) — $18.00

While Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Concentrate may be known for removing grime from your kitchen counters, it also can do the same for your yoga mat. It’s specifically designed to wipe down non-porous surfaces, and is chock-full of essential oils that help create a “calming and soothing” aroma, according to yoga instructor and Vice President of Pilates Anytime, Gia Calhoun.

Manduka Botanical Cleaner — $18.00

In the world of high quality yoga mats, Manduka rarely disappoints. And the brand’s Botanical Cleaner is Gershman’s top pick for disinfecting her mat after every yoga sesh. The plant-based solution helps to disinfect your mat’s surface and eliminates 99.9 percent of bacteria and viruses. It works on nearly any mat except for polyurethane mats. To use, just spray a few spritz directly onto your mat, leave for 10 minutes, and wipe clean. As a bonus, “you don’t have to rinse or wipe this off, so it is easy to disinfect your mat right after a yoga class,” Gershman said.

Lululemon Yoga Nat Spray Cleanser — $14.00

If you’re worried about irritating your skin with harsh chemicals, the Lululemon Yoga Mat Spray Cleanser is a safe bet for keeping your mat fresh. It actually contains probiotics that help to break down dirt and other particles that may be stuck on your mat after your latest HIIT workout. The plant-based formula also contains a notes of bergamot and juniper to help relax your mind.

“The Lululemon Yoga Mat Spray Cleanser is my personal favorite as it is gentle on the skin, kind to the planet and includes essentials oils that smells incredible, such as bergamot, juniper, and sandalwood,” yoga teacher and Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Yohanna Mannelqvist said. “It naturally breaks down dirt while keeping the mat’s grip which for me is really important!”

Bondi Wash Tasmanian Pepper and Lavender Yoga Mat Spray — $25.00

If you want to help keep your mat smelling fresh 24/7, this Bondi Wash cleaner is here to help. It’s gentle in removing dirt and unwanted odors, thanks to ingredients like plant-derived alcohol, Australian bush oils, and essential oils. “It’s a natural, anti-bacterial formula that will freshen and sanitize your mat without damaging it,” Mannelqvist said. “It doesn’t leave any sticky residue and smells wonderful!”

Mind Over Lather Natural Yoga Mat Cleaning Spray — $13.00

While some yoga cleansers may leave your mat slippery and covered in an oily residue, this Mind Over Lather yoga cleaning spray does the exact opposite. It has a robust formula that contains mint, tea tree and eucalyptus (a type of oil that is a natural disinfectant) that provides a rich and relaxing aroma. The spray can also be used to wipe down other types of workout equipment.

Jade Yoga Mat Wash — $13.00

If you are a fan of using natural rubber yoga mats, which are often sturdy and absorbent, this spray was made specifically made for you. The cleanser contains white thyme, oregano, and eucalyptus essential oils to clean and help prolong the life of your mat for future workouts.

Gaiam Yoga Mat Wash — $10.00

Calling all heavy sweat-ers. This Gaiam Yoga Mat Wash may just be what you need to keep germs at bay and your mat good as new. This gentle cleaner has become a fan-favorite for its use of natural and organic oils such as lavender, lemongrass, and coconut that remove excess sweat and dirt on your mat. Together, these ingredients help to disinfect your mat without damaging it for later use. Additionally, this spray can be used to clean polyvinyl chloride, NBR, vinyl yoga mats and yogi gear.

Cuccio Somatology Yoga Mat Sani Spray Cleaner (32oz) — $23.00

For quick and daily maintenance, this Cuccio Somatology cleaner has got you covered. It helps to quickly disinfect your mat right after your yoga session, and the scent is fresh and light. The formula is a powerful blend of aloe vera leaf juice, eucalyptus, and water. Just spray some directly onto your mat and wipe down with a cloth. If you opt for a 32oz jug, you’ll have supply for a long time—and you can save on plastic by using smaller, refillable spray bottles.

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As temperatures drop, the risk of illness – including cold and flu – rises. It can be easy to mistake the flu for a common cold since many of the symptoms are the same, but muscle aches, cough, fever, headaches and sore throat are some of the more common signs you may be suffering from the flu, which tends to come on quicker than a cold.

In fact, a random, double-opt-in OnePoll survey of 2,005 Americans commissioned by Mucinex found sore throat pain to be one of the top three most debilitating symptoms along with fever and migraine.

While there’s no way to ensure you and your family members won’t get sick, there are steps you can take to reduce the chances.

Get a flu shot

The flu spreads differently than colds and can be transmitted before symptoms even arise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all people older than 6 months of age get the influenza vaccine, or flu shot, annually to help protect against the strains of flu expected to be the most common during the current flu season. The injection, which does not contain a live virus, goes into the arm muscle to generate antibodies that protect against future flu infection about two weeks after receiving the vaccine.

Practice self-careWhile important year-round, maintaining regular self-care practices can go a long way toward maintaining your health during cold and flu season. Eating a well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins can help strengthen your immune system, as can working out moderately each day. Regular exercise also helps reduce inflammation. In addition, proper hydration can help maintain many important body functions, and getting the National Sleep Foundation-recommended 7-9 hours of sleep can help keep antibodies strong and build a defense against illnesses.

Prepare for symptomsAs one of the common symptoms of the flu, sore throat pain can flip your life upside down with the constant nagging, disruptive pain and irritation. However, 55% of those surveyed said they were likely to “power through” a sore throat and continue working, going to school and completing other tasks while dealing with sore throat pain. To make powering through easier, the Mucinex InstaSoothe line includes lozenges and sprays designed to numb, soothe and relieve sore throat pain.

“What separates these lozenges from others is they’re clinically proven to numb sore throat pain fast,” said Dr. Omid Mehdizadeh, MD, otolaryngology, and head and neck (ENT) surgeon. “Both lozenge varieties contain Hexylresorcinol, a local anesthetic for topical use on the mucous membranes of the throat and mouth. As a lozenge dissolves in the mouth, it starts to deliver a local ‘numbing’ anesthetic effect directly to the throat within seconds, lasting up to two hours. For those needing relief from a sore throat and cough, the Mucinex InstaSoothe Sore Throat + Cough Relief Lozenges also contain the active ingredient Dextromethorphan HBr to provide cough suppression.”

Stock your medicine cabinetBe ready before cold and flu hit your household. Take inventory of your medicine cabinet, get rid of any expired medicines and make note of any you need to replace and replenish. Make sure you have pain relievers, fever reducers, decongestants, antihistamines and cough syrups that can be used to help fight cold and flu symptoms. In addition, think about other supplies you may need to have on hand such as tissues, cough drops, hand sanitizer, anti-bacterial soap, a thermometer and a humidifier.

Disinfect household surfacesCold and flu viruses can live outside the human body on hard, non-porous surfaces such as metal, plastic and wood for hours, and sometimes even days. Regularly cleaning often-touched household surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, faucet handles and countertops with a disinfectant spray or wipe can help kill germs that cause the viruses. Look for Environmental Protection Agency-approved disinfectants containing bleach, alcohol, pine oil, sodium hypochlorite, citric acid, hydrogen peroxide or quaternary ammonium compounds for best results.

Remember healthy habitsOne of the easiest ways to help avoid getting sick is to practice proper hygiene. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible, as these are areas where cold and flu germs can most easily gain entry into your system. Remember to cough and sneeze into a tissue or into your elbow if a tissue is not readily available.

Frequently wash your hands with warm water and anti-bacterial soap for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom, before eating and after touching surfaces in public places. A good rule of thumb is to sing “Happy Birthday” twice to judge the time.

Using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also suffice when a sink isn’t within close proximity. Also avoid sharing items like utensils and cups, even with family members, to help avoid spreading germs.

Have a plan for sick daysDuring cold and flu season, you or one of your family members may become ill and need to miss work or school. If you typically work in an office space, check to see if working remotely is possible and verify your office’s policies about sick time. Saving sick time or a couple vacation days for the season can help avoid having to take unpaid time off if you need to stay home for any reason. Also consider enlisting the help of friends or relatives to help with sick children in the event you’re unable to take time off from work, and coordinate with your children’s teachers to ensure your little ones receive any schoolwork they may have missed while home sick.

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Originally Appeared Here

Experts explain why kitchen sponge bacteria may be a cause for concern.

Image Credit: LIVESTRONG.com Creative

How Bad Is It Really? sets the record straight on all the habits and behaviors you’ve heard might be unhealthy.

A sponge is your wingman in the quest to make your kitchen sparkling and germ-free, right? So you might be surprised to discover that it’s actually the dirtiest thing in your house.

A July 2017 study in ​Nature​ found that sponges are teeming with germs. In samples from 14 sponges, researchers identified 362 different types of bacteria. The only other place with this much bacteria is the human intestinal tract.

Moreover, an April 2017 study in the ​Journal of Food Protection​ determined that 44 percent of kitchens contained fecal bacteria, which was primarily found in sinks, sponges and dishcloths.

If it’s been forever since you sanitized your sponge or swapped it out for a new one, your stomach is probably crawling right about now. Here’s why you should be concerned — and how to clean up your act.

Why Do Kitchen Sponges Harbor So Many Germs?

It’s a dirty job, but your sponge has to do it.

“Your kitchen sponges get used to clean all of the dirty crockery, including knives and chopping boards that may have been in contact with raw meat or other contaminants,” says Henry Paterson, operations executive at Housekeep. “Not to mention, many of us use the sponge to clean counters and spills.”

On top of that, the design of a sponge makes it a hotspot for bacteria. “Sponges are porous and are rarely dry fully between uses,” Paterson says. “Since bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments, a sponge provides the ideal conditions for germs to multiply.”

Finally, your sponge MO can contribute to the growth and spread of pathogens. “Some people lack an understanding of the dynamic at play,” says Philip Tierno, PhD, clinical professor of microbiology and pathology at NYU Langone Health.

“If you clean raw chicken drippings with a sponge, it will pick up microorganisms that may have been growing in the chicken juice; the next time you use the germ-ridden sponge, you will cross-contaminate the kitchen.”

As you proceed to wipe off the countertops, fridge handle and faucet, you’re effectively smearing those pathogens all over the room.

“Your risk of illness increases the more cavalier you are about sponge hygiene, but it is not a quid pro quo. It depends on the strength of your immune system, the number of bacteria you ingest and the type of bacteria — certain kinds are more virulent than others.”

An Old, Filthy Sponge Could Give You Food Poisoning

An estimated 48 million people get sick from a foodborne illness every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The biggest bacterial and viral offenders are norovirus, salmonella, C. perfringens, campylobacter and staph.

For most folks, food poisoning results in a night praying to the porcelain gods — think: nausea, vomiting, cramps and diarrhea. But you could be in deeper trouble. Per the CDC, 128,000 people end up being hospitalized for foodborne illness annually. Older adults, children and those who are pregnant or immunocompromised are at greater risk.

That said, you might get lucky: The microorganisms multiplying on your sponge might not be the kind that make you sick — the majority of bacteria in the July 2017 ​Nature​ study were not harmful to most people.

It’s also possible that the food droppings you wiped up might be germ-free, although the odds aren’t in your favor if the sponge has been in contact with uncooked poultry. Tierno points out that about 80 to 90 percent of raw chicken contains some sort of pathogen.

“Your risk of illness increases the more cavalier you are about sponge hygiene, but it is not a quid pro quo,” Tierno says. “It depends on the strength of your immune system, the number of bacteria you ingest and the type of bacteria — certain kinds are more virulent than others.”

The One Time You Need to Replace Your Sponge

Even though grungy sponges are bursting with germs, you don’t actually need to stock up on Costco-sized packages of Scotch-Brite.

“The kitchen sponge never has to be replaced except for one circumstance: when it becomes functionally unusable,” Tierno says. “If it’s shredding and not picking up liquid, you should get a new one.”

The most important thing is to sanitize your sponge on a daily basis. As long as it’s squeaky-clean, you’re in the clear.

3 Ways to Disinfect Your Sponge

These easy methods will demolish germs.

Tierno’s favorite sterilization strategy is to mix 1 ounce of bleach with 1 quart of water. Dip your sponge in and let it sit for 2 minutes. Then, rinse off the sponge with soap and water, and let it air-dry.

“This will quickly kill any foodborne germs,” Tierno says. “And the bleach will soon dissipate, so it’s not harmful to the environment.”

Put the sponge in a bowl of water and nuke it until it reaches a boiling point. Microwaves don’t heat uniformly, so if you just put the sponge on a dish, areas might be missed and it won’t efficiently kill all the microorganisms.

“The bowl of water ensures a uniform ambient temperature, which guarantees that all the pathogens will be killed,” Tierno says.

Warning

Never microwave a dry sponge or one that contains metal — it’s a fire hazard.

If your dishwasher has a germicide cycle, pop your sponge in to disinfect it. The high heat zaps pathogens.

Follow these tips from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to help keep your scrubber spick and span.

1. To cut down on contamination, clean up raw poultry and meat juice with a disposable paper towel instead of a sponge.

2. Consider using your sponge only for dishwashing. Stick to paper towels plus a sanitizing spray or disinfecting wipes for countertops. Or switch to fast-drying microfiber cloths. A dry environment is less hospitable to pathogens, and microfiber cloths are easy to clean — throw them in hot water in the washing machine and dry on high heat.

3. Wring out your sponge well after each use and store it in an airy location where it’s easy to dry, like a sponge caddy attached to the side of your sink or dish drainer.

4. If your sponge has a stench even after sanitizing it, toss it.

So, Is Never Replacing Your Sponge Really That Bad?

The big takeaway here is that ​disinfecting​ your sponge on the reg is paramount. Remember, you can disinfect your sponge in the microwave, in the dishwasher or in a bleach solution.

“As long as sanitation occurs every day, it’s not bad to never replace your sponge,” Tierno says.

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Originally Appeared Here

Photo: UBCO

A new study at the University of British Columbia Okanagan shines a light on how sunlight can be used to disinfect surfaces in your home or workplace.

The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified concerns over how buildings might influence the health of the people who live and work in them. There has been some attention paid to ventilation, cleaning and filtration, however, the importance of daylight has been ignored, until now.

The UBCO research shows daylight passing through smart windows results in almost complete disinfection of surfaces within 24 hours while still blocking harmful ultraviolet light.

Dr. Sepideh Pakpour, an assistant professor at UBCO’s School of Engineering tested four strains of hazardous bacteria—methicillin-resistance Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa—using a mini-living lab set-up. The lab used smart windows, which tint based on outdoor light conditions, and traditional windows with blinds. Dr. Pakpour found that, compared to windows with blinds, the smart windows significantly reduce bacterial growth rate. In fact the smart windows blocked more than 99.9 per cent of UV light, but still let in short-wavelength, high-energy daylight which acts as a disinfectant. This shorter wavelength light effectively eliminated contamination on glass, plastic and fabric surfaces.

Traditional window blinds block daylight, therefore, preventing surfaces from being disinfected. Dr. Pakpour noted previous research shows 92 per cent of hospital curtains can get contaminated within a week of being cleaned.

“We know that daylight kills bacteria and fungi,” she says. “But the question is, are there ways to harness that benefit in buildings, while still protecting us from glare and UV radiation? Our findings demonstrate the benefits of smart windows for disinfection, and have implications for infectious disease transmission in laboratories, health-care facilities and the buildings in which we live and work.”

A study from the Harvard Business Review points to natural light and views being among the most sought after by potential employees. Combine that with a push for “healthy buildings” as part of the COVID-19 return to work and employers could benefit from installing smart windows.

“Our buildings need to go beyond sustainable and smart to become healthy and safe environments first and foremost,” says Dr. Rao Mulpuri, Chairman and CEO at View, the company partnering with UBC for this research. “Companies are grappling with how to bring their people back to the office in a safe way. This research provides yet another reason why increased access to natural light needs to be part of the equation.”

Studies have shown that pathogenic bacteria and fungi can survive on inanimate surfaces for prolonged periods, which can lead to disease transmission.

“With the rise of antimicrobial resistance, antibiotics are no longer a silver bullet in treating health-care-associated infections, which cause tens of thousands of deaths in the US each year,” says Dr. Tex Kissoon, Vice Chair of the Global Sepsis Alliance, UBC Children’s Hospital Endowed Chair in Acute and Critical Care for Global Child Health. “The potential for daylight to sterilize surfaces and avoid these infections altogether is promising and should be factored into health-care facility design.”

Dr. Pakpour presented her findings Wednesday at the international Healthy Buildings Conference in Amsterdam.

“Our findings demonstrate the benefits of smart windows for disinfection, and have implications for infectious disease transmission in laboratories, health care facilities and the buildings in which we live and work.”

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Rubbing alcohol is a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water. Sometimes, it contains additional ingredients. By contrast, isopropyl alcohol is pure alcohol with no other ingredients.

Because rubbing alcohol contains isopropyl alcohol, the two liquids have similar properties, but they are not the same. For example, both have antibacterial properties and are disinfectants.

However, because it is undiluted, isopropyl alcohol is too hazardous to use as a disinfectant for the skin or home. Companies use isopropyl alcohol in industrial settings to manufacture products, while rubbing alcohol is for at-home use.

In this article, we will discuss the similarities and differences between isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol. We will also explain how to use rubbing alcohol as a disinfectant and the potential side effects.

No – isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol are not the same thing.

Isopropyl alcohol is pure alcohol and is a colorless liquid with a musty, sharp odor. There are no other ingredients in a bottle of isopropyl alcohol.

By contrast, rubbing alcohol contains isopropyl alcohol among other ingredients, such as water. Most rubbing alcohol brands contain 70% isopropyl alcohol.

Isopropyl alcohol is also not the same substance as ethyl alcohol, which is the type of alcohol in beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages.

The other main component of rubbing alcohol is water. Depending on the product, there may be other ingredients.

Some rubbing alcohols that companies manufacture for aching muscles contain essential oils such as wintergreen. Wintergreen essential oil contains a compound known as methyl salicylate, which dilates tiny blood vessels in the skin. This can help relieve aches and pains.

The main difference between isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol is the concentration. The concentration of isopropyl alcohol is 100%, while the concentration of rubbing alcohol is less because of the addition of water.

Otherwise, the two liquids have similar properties. They are antibacterial and antiseptic. They are also both flammable, and toxic when inhaled or ingested.

Both products involve risks with use, but because isopropyl alcohol is more concentrated than rubbing alcohol, it is more hazardous.

Despite their similarities, isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol have different uses.

Isopropyl alcohol

Manufacturers use isopropyl alcohol to make:

• cosmetics
• personal care products
• perfumes
• antifreeze
• pharmaceuticals
• dyes
• lacquers
• window cleaners

Rubbing alcohol

People typically use rubbing alcohol at home as an antiseptic to clean cuts and scrapes, lowering the risk of infection. It may be part of an at-home first aid kit or medicine cabinet.

If a rubbing alcohol contains wintergreen or methyl salicylate, individuals may use it to help relieve muscle aches that are the result of exertion. An additional use involves disinfecting small objects in the home.

Isopropyl alcohol is undiluted, so has stronger antibacterial properties. However, this also makes it more hazardous, and it is not appropriate for home use.

People should not apply isopropyl alcohol to the skin for any reason, as it can pass into the bloodstream and cause poisoning. Rubbing alcohol is better for use in first aid and to sterilize small objects or surfaces.

Below are instructions for using rubbing alcohol in several ways.

Disinfecting items in the home

A person may use rubbing alcohol in the home to disinfect thermometers and frequently touched items, such as computer keyboards and phones.

First, ensure the room is well-ventilated. Next, dip cotton wool in rubbing alcohol and apply it to the surface or object.

Disinfecting cuts and scrapes

People can use rubbing alcohol that contains 70% isopropyl alcohol to disinfect minor cuts and scrapes. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Ensure the room has good ventilation.
2. Gently clean the skin around the cut with some water.
3. Add a small amount of rubbing alcohol to a cotton pad and apply to the area. Allow it to dry.
4. Cover with a sterile bandage, if necessary.
5. Repeat this 1–3 times per day.

Do not apply rubbing alcohol to a large area of the body or near the eyes, and do not use it for more than 1 week without consulting a doctor.

Relieving muscle aches due to exertion

For muscle aches, a person may try using rubbing alcohol that contains 50% isopropyl alcohol with added wintergreen. Apply some of the rubbing alcohol to clean gauze or a cotton swab, then rub onto the area. Alternatively, apply some of the liquid directly to the skin and rub with the hands.

Again, it is important to make sure the room has good ventilation. Do not get rubbing alcohol into the eyes or on other mucous membranes.

Using rubbing alcohol on the skin or in the home has some risks, such as:

Skin irritation

Some people may find rubbing alcohol irritates their skin. People can wash the substance away with soap and water if this occurs.

People should never use pure isopropyl alcohol on their skin because it can pass through the skin and cause toxicity. If a person gets isopropyl alcohol on their skin:

1. Remove any contaminated clothing.
2. Wash the skin with lots of water and soap.
3. If possible, get into a shower so that running water can wash all traces of the liquid away.

Fire

Isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol are highly flammable. Always keep them away from open flames and close the cap tightly when not in use.

Eye damage

Do not use rubbing alcohol around the eyes or other delicate areas. Exposure can damage the eyes and cause serious injury.

If the product gets into the eye, immediately flush it under clean running water for a minimum of 15 minutes, lifting the lower and upper lids to ensure all the alcohol washes away. If a person wears contact lenses, they should remove these first.

Poisoning

Both isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol are toxic. This is true whether a person inhales the fumes or if they drink the liquid. Neither substance is a substitute for alcohol in drinks, and even one sip can have the following effects:

• Depression of the brain and spinal cord, which can cause:
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • inebriation, which means behavior that resembles intoxication from alcoholic beverages
• Irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause:
  • abdominal pain
  • nausea
  • vomiting blood
• Intoxication, which leads to:
  • low body temperature
  • low blood pressure
  • cardiovascular collapse
  • death

Wintergreen and methyl salicylate are also toxic when ingested. Always keep medicines and alcohol out of the reach of children in a locked cabinet.

Rubbing alcohol is a diluted form of isopropyl alcohol. Sometimes, it also contains other ingredients, such as wintergreen essential oil. While the concentration of isopropyl alcohol is 100%, the concentration of many brands of rubbing alcohol is 70%.

The difference in strength makes rubbing alcohol safe to use in the home to disinfect objects and scrapes on the skin. However, it is only safe if a person follows directions for use and heeds precautions, such as using it in a well-ventilated area and avoiding contact with the eyes.

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Originally Appeared Here

This was not your average vaccination clinic.

It was possible Saturday afternoon to get a bagged lunch, a winter coat, and a job at the COVID-19 vaccination clinic held at the Olivet Boys’ & Girls’ Police Athletic League Club.

The Community Resources and Job Fair was held in the gymnasium on one side of Walnut Street while, on the opposite side, at the main club, health professionals with Berks Community Health Center were giving the shots or administering COVID tests.

Employers, including home health care agencies, were hiring on the spot. Among the recruiters on hand were representatives of the Reading Public Works Department and the Olivet Club itself.

To add some verve, the Reading High School cheerleaders were on hand and DJ H-Vidal from the hip-hop radio station LOUD 98.5 was broadcasting live from the gym.

Besides employment recruiters, representatives from a host of nonprofit organizations had pamphlets and giveaways for those who stopped by before or after visiting the clinic.

We Agape You, an organization that typically works to help veterans in need, received a $15,000 state grant as part of Pennsylvania’s grassroots vaccine outreach effort.

Olivet Boys and Girls PAL Club, 325 Walnut St, was the site of a COVID vaccine clinic Saturday, Jan. 22, 2022. The event was a collaboration of several nonprofit organizations targeting inner city residents. (STEVEN HENSHAW — READING EAGLE)

The state distributed 65 grants totaling $2.5 million to help organizations encourage hesitant Pennsylvanians to get the COVID vaccine, according to Gov. Tom Wolf’s office.

We Agape You organized  the Job and Resources Fair with The Real Deal610, a Reading-based nonprofit focused on bringing awareness to mental health problems and helping people overcome obstacles, along with Olivet and Berks Community Health Center.

Seleda Simmons, executive director of The Real Deal610, said COVID has had a devastating effect on the community in terms of job security and mental health.

“If there’s one thing COVD taught us is that jobs are not secure,” she said.

The COVID vaccine clinic presented an opportunity to provide information about the resources that are available, including job opportunities.

The Reading Public Works Department is looking to hire laborers, truck drivers and administrative assistants, said Bethany Ayers Fisher, city sustainability manager.

Some of the openings are the result of retirements, she said. To apply or find out more information, go to readingpa.gov/full-jobs

Stephan Fains, outreach coordinator with Berks Community Action Program, or BCAP, was recruiting as well—not to fill jobs but to get young men on board with a mission. He was there to talk about the various initiatives promoting responsible fatherhood.

Chris Winters, president and CEO of Olivet, said he was quick to say “let’s do it” when Randolph Simmons, president of We Agape You, proposed organizing a big event around a COVID vaccination clinic.

Through sponsors they provided disinfecting products, school supplies, new winter coats and other necessities.

The Olivet organization has been doggedly pursued vaccination through clinics it has held in partnership with Berks Community Health Center and other partners. About 11,000 shots have been given at them, Winters said.

Winters sees vaccination as a path to normalcy, noting that parents worried about their kids bringing COVID home are keeping a lot of younger children away from the clubs, which provide a safe, structured environment for socialization and other needs.

“We keep forging ahead and we’re going to keep doing this,” Winters said. “The one thing I tell my team all the time is that the blue doors have never closed. We have kept our doors open the whole time.”

The health professionals who conducted the vaccine and testing clinic said it wasn’t as busy as the typical clinic, perhaps due to a combination of the extremely cold weather and the location, which didn’t easily lend itself to drive-up traffic.

“We were told we would be vaccinating a lot of people so we came equipped to vaccinate 400 people, if need be,” said Heather Raquet, vaccine nurse coordinator with Berks Community Health Center.

Based on the traffic, it appeared they would struggle to give out half that many shots.

But that didn’t deter Simmons. He said the group will conduct more such events in the future to try to reach the hard-to-reach populations.

“We want to be able to reach people on their own level, whatever they are seeking to do, to learn, to be employed, for housing, that’s what we’re all about,” Simmons said

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Originally Appeared Here

Dear TCS Families,This letter has important information regarding the operation of the Tuscaloosa City Schools for the next few days.

The Tuscaloosa City Schools will be closed on Friday, January 21, 2022 for students. Monday, January 24, 2022 will serve as a virtual day for our students. All schools will resume in-person learning on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.

It is and remains our goal to stay in school and avoid having to go to virtual. However, there are significant challenges that led us to this decision. Here are some challenges and reasons that led us to this decision:

All schools are impacted by the staffing challenge. We have only been able to fill approximately 42% of our teacher vacancies leaving numerous classrooms without a substitute. While our schools have managed with internal scheduling and incredible faculty/staff members, it has pulled our teachers and other personnel from their planning and other responsibilities.

Our transportation department will be operating with approximately 30 unfilled routes with projected absences of fifteen to twenty drivers. We are very close to not being able to provide this essential service. This time will allow us to get our drivers back from leave while providing us an opportunity to disinfect all of our buses.

As of the time of this communication, we have 2.93% of our students reported as being positive and 3.68% of our employees. Our daily attendance rate for students is approximately 84%. This time out will allow all students and employees currently reported as positive to return.

By building in a block of time (January 21-24) with students at home, this will allow an opportunity to decrease the current staffing challenges.  We will also use these days to disinfect our school buildings. Further, our teachers will be able to build back their classroom planning while other departments assess needs for future operations.

Your child’s school will communicate specifics related to the virtual days on Monday. All schools will resume in-person learning on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.

When we return to our schools on Tuesday, we will continue to make school-by-school decisions based on the staffing issues at each school. Should we need to move an individual school to virtual for a brief period of time, your child’s school will communicate that to you directly.

We thank you for your understanding as we move through this challenging time.
Mike Daria, Ed.D.
Superintendent

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Originally Appeared Here

By Sue Tiffin

An outbreak has been declared at a community home in Haliburton.

The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District health unit reported the outbreak at the Community Living facility on Mountain Street on Jan. 18.

“One person supported and four staff have tested positive, happily with mild symptoms or none at all,” said Teresa Jordan, executive director of Community Living Trent Highlands. “The health unit has been very supportive and we continue to take our guidance from them. All extra measures of infection control are in place and the team is tremendously dedicated to ensuring that all that can be done to make the days better in isolation is being creatively done.”

Since the beginning of the pandemic in March 2020, 121 COVID-19 outbreaks have been declared in the HKPRD health unit region – 70 in Northumberland County, 43 in City of Kawartha Lakes and eight in Haliburton County. Of those 121 outbreaks, 47 were declared in long-term care homes; 25 were declared in congregate settings including group homes, shelters and correctional facilities; 16 were declared in schools; 13 were declared in workplaces or other community settings; five were declared in hospitals and two were declared in child care facilities. The outbreak is the first for Community Living in Haliburton County and the first local outbreak reported since prior to Christmas.

“While this is our first outbreak in Haliburton, as an agency we have experience and the entire agency rallies to support the teams that are facing the extra work and worry of outbreak,” said Jordan.

Provincial guidance currently requires that a COVID-19 outbreak be declared in a congregate setting when two or more linked confirmed cases occur within a 14-day period, where at least one case could have reasonably acquired their infection in the congregate setting.
According to Dr. Natalie Bocking, HKPRD medical officer of health, the health unit is working closely with the facility to manage and control the outbreak, ensuring that staff and residents are protected against COVID-19. Outbreak measures include: regular testing of staff and residents, isolating/cohorting of residents, active screening for COVID-19 symptoms, limiting or restricting communal activities, putting in place visitor restrictions, limiting/restricting new admissions and limiting/restricting client absences, as well as routine COVID-19 prevention measures such as mask use, physical distancing, vaccination, PPE use and regular cleaning/disinfecting.

“Omicron is spread very easily, and settings where large numbers of people live or gather can be at greater risk of seeing transmission,” Bocking told the Times. “This is why, during the latest surge in COVID-19 cases, the health unit is no longer declaring outbreaks in community settings, but is continuing to do so for high-risk congregate settings such as long-term care homes, retirement homes, shelters, group homes, hospitals and other settings where there is a risk of ongoing exposure. These facilities are doing all they can to prevent COVID-19 spread and to protect the health of residents and staff, and the health unit is here to assist in any way before, during and after an outbreak.”

Jordan offered thanks to the Haliburton community for support throughout the pandemic.

“We have had many experiences where community members have offered encouragement and thanks to the staff for their essential work throughout this time,” she said. “At this time with no serious illness there are no immediate needs, but certainly positive thoughts for a speedy resolve would be most welcome.”

An outbreak is declared over when there are no new COVID-19 cases in clients or staff after 14 days from the latest of the date of isolation of the last client case, or date of illness onset of the last client case, or date of last shift at work for last staff case.

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Originally Appeared Here

Body

“In an effort to reduce school spread and keep our schools open, we are highly encouraging everyone to protect themselves and others from COVID-19 by doing the following,” begins communication sent from the Beaumont Independent School District (BISD) to parents entering the MLK Day holiday three-day weekend, before going on to say the exact same thing public institutions and epidemiologists have been echoing for roughly two years now.

“Wear a form-fitting mask while indoors,” stay home when showing symptoms of COVID, and value the “importance of hand-washing.” It’s been said, many times, many ways – but administrators are sending the message again, especially since COVID infection in the district is rising – again.

Anyone exhibiting symptoms consistent with COVID is urged to take a free COVID test to determine positivity. COVID-19 symptoms include: cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chills, significant muscle pain or ache, headache, fatigue, nausea, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, shaking or exaggerated shivering, diarrhea, feeling feverish, fever of 100 or higher, congestion or runny nose, and vomiting. Another indicator that a person may be COVID-positive is known close contact with a person who is lab confirmed to have COVID-19.

“Keep your students home if they have been tested for COVID until you receive the test results,” BISD advises. “We are continuing to disinfect our campuses daily. Our No. 1 priority is to keep our staff and students safe and keep them in school.”

For further questions regarding COVID-19, parents are advised to email Julie Nezat at [email protected].

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Originally Appeared Here

Many factors cause the teeth to become yellow and lose their shine. Some foods stain your enamel, and plaque buildup can contribute to the yellowing of your teeth. You don’t have to resort to chemicals to whiten your teeth, below are natural teeth whitening remedies compiled for you.

Unlike other chemicals, hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that kills bacteria in the mouth. It can be found in mouthwash, and it has been used for years to disinfect wounds. Hydrogen peroxide can be purchased over the counter, and an excellent way to use it is as a mouthwash before you brush your teeth. You can mix it with water to dilute it before use.

Baking soda contains natural whitening properties, and it is a common ingredient in your commercial toothpaste. It helps to scrub away tooth stains, and it creates an alkaline atmosphere in your mouth which prevents the growth of harmful bacteria.

Baking soda won’t whiten your teeth overnight, but it will improve the appearance of your teeth over time. You can mix baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to create your own teeth whitening paste. For more guidance, check online for the recommended amount to mix.

3. Eat veggies and fruits

Although eating plenty of fruits and vegetables aren’t a substitute for regularly brushing your teeth, they help prevent and eliminate plaque. For example, pineapples and strawberries have been proven to contain acids that help with healthier teeth.

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Originally Appeared Here