How To Protect Yourself from the Germ Cycle
No, it's not the next Philip Glass opera--we're talking about cold and flu season. Both are a particular challenge in schools where students, faculty and staff from all over the area come together in small spaces--leading to the circulation of germs.
In music schools, like the Cleveland Institute of Music, compact practice rooms, working closely together in enclosed studios, practicing long hours and/or rehearsing and using shared instruments or equipment--can lead to sharing more than sheet music.
So, here are some tips to help you take care of yourself (not just in school but wherever you are) and keep from spreading of all those nasty little "bugs" just looking for a warm body...with low immunity.
Like so many things at CIM, it begins with practice.
Practice good health habits...
Get plenty of quality rest and sleep.
Stay warm and dry whenever possible to keep your immunity strong.
Eat nutritious, vitamin rich foods and drink lots of water.
Wash your hands properly and often using soap and hot water (using a towel or your elbow to turn off the faucet, etc.) or an alcohol-based hand santizer.
Wipe down surfaces (including tables, counters or keyboards) before and after regular contact.
Don't share food, beverages, utensils or personal care products/items.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth after touching potentially contaminated surfaces in common areas such as lunch or practice rooms.
Talk to your doctor about whether a flu shot is appropriate for you.
If you are sick...
Stay in bed and rest, if at all possible.
Get plenty of water or other fluids.
Avoid close contact with others.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing--use a tissue or your elbow (see helpful, handy CDC illustration).
Dispose of tissues--don't let them and germs linger in pockets or bags.
Disinfect your toothbrush (with hot salt water); replace it when you're well.
For musicians and singers especially...
If you have a fever, you may want to skip practice and get some rest; you won't get much out of feverishly playing (literally).
Ease sore throats by gargling gently with warm salt water, and drink warm water with lemon and honey or honey and steeped fresh ginger.
Think twice before going to a rehearsal sick--you want to reduce the risk of spreading whatever bug you have to your fellow musicians.
Wipe down music stands, instrument cases and handles, and wipe or clean your instrument--this goes double for brass or woodwind players.
As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. BUT...if you find yourself needing a cure, seek medical advice. For more information, visit the CDC's website on Seasonal Flu.
