ThedaCare is urging caregivers to prioritize their own health while caring for sick loved ones.
Dr. Karly Johannsen, a Family Medical Physician with ThedaCare New London, emphasized the importance of preventive measures, such as vaccinations, to help prevent contagious illnesses like the flu or pneumonia.
Dr. Johannsen also stressed the need for proper hand hygiene. While alcohol-based hand sanitizers can be a temporary solution, she warned that they are not effective against stomach bugs.
“Hand sanitizer is not effective against stomach bugs. Wash hands with soap and water if you’re caring for someone with a gastrointestinal illness,” Johannsen said.
When caring for someone who is ill, caregivers should provide plenty of water and tissues and limit the sick person’s exposure to others.
Dr. Johannsen noted that a person can be considered recovered when they have been fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.
She also advised that caregivers who begin to feel sick themselves should stay home to prevent the spread of illness.
