Classic autumn activities, such as visiting farms, apple orchards and pumpkin patches, are a staple of the season. Now that we’re expecting more pleasant weather, it’s a good time to go out and enjoy these fall traditions.
However, these settings can also provide opportunities for germs to spread. With a few precautions, you can still enjoy your fall outings while protecting yourself and loved ones from some not-so-fun diseases.
One of the easiest ways to protect your family is to make handwashing part of your routine. Wash your hands with soap and water before eating, after using the bathroom and after touching animals or visiting animal areas. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer until you can wash your hands. Keep a close eye on young children, who may be tempted to touch their faces or eat without washing their hands.
If you’re picking or purchasing apples and other produce, wash them at home under running water before eating. Avoid eating apples that have fallen on the ground. Even if they look clean, they may have come into contact with animal waste or other sources of germs.
Finally, if you’re enjoying a cup of apple cider or purchasing juice from an orchard or farm, check the label to make sure it has been pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that helps destroy harmful germs so juice, milk and other liquids are safe to drink. If you aren’t sure whether a product is pasteurized, ask the seller.
With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy your favorite fall traditions while protecting your family from illness.
Natalie Del Vecchio is the community heath educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.