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Content on this page was developed during the 2009-2010 H1N1 pandemic and has not been updated.

  • The H1N1 virus that caused that pandemic is now a regular human flu virus and continues to circulate seasonally worldwide.
  • The English language content on this website is being archived for historic and reference purposes only.
  • For current, updated information on seasonal flu, including information about H1N1, see the CDC Seasonal Flu website.

Caring for Someone Sick at Home

How to Clean the Sick Room

December 5, 2009, 6:00 AM ET

You’ll want to clean the sick room each day.

man drying clothesFollow these tips:

Cleaning Hard Surfaces

  • Clean surfaces that may have flu germs on them. These may include doorknobs, bedside tables, bathroom sinks, toilets, counters, phones, and toys.
  • Clean these hard surfaces by using water and dish soap. Or use common household cleaners that kill germs.

Cleaning Bed Linens and Laundry

  • Wash bed sheets and towels with normal laundry soap and tumble dry on a hot dryer setting. Hold all dirty laundry away from your face and body. Wash your hands right after touching dirty laundry.
  • It’s OK to wash the sick person’s bedding or clothes with other people’s laundry.

Cleaning Dishes

  • Wash the sick person’s dishes with normal dish soap or place in the dishwasher.
 
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