Some minor illnesses such as coughs, colds, or tummy upsets can spread from one person to another very easily. There are some simple things that you can do to reduce the risk of this happening.

The most important thing you can do is to always wash your hands well, using hot water and soap. Especially after going to the toilet, changing a nappy, handling rubbish, touching animals and before you eat or prepare food for yourself or anyone else. If you blow your nose, cough or sneeze, try and do it into a tissue and throw it away, then wash your hands afterwards. 

Remember also to get into the habit of washing your baby or young child’s hands regularly, especially before they eat.

As soon as your child is old enough teach them to do this properly for themselves. There are lots of fun ways to help them to enjoy doing this. You could try making up songs to sing while they are hand washing, making bubbles with the soap, or making splashing sounds in the water.