Traditionally we're taught to cover our mouths when we cough or sneeze, to avoid spraying our germs into the air. However, by covering our mouths that simply transfers the germs to our hands which then allows the germs to spread to everything we touch.

The Web MD article suggests a two-part plan for defending yourself against the swine flu.

First, to avoid infection you should follow these types of actions:

• wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with warm water and soap
• avoid close contact -- 6 ft or closer -- with sick people
• if you use a face mask, be sure to throw it away after use

Second, to help keep the swine flu virus from spreading you should follow actions like these:

• don't cough or sneeze into your bare hands; use a tissue or if none are available -- cough or sneeze into your elbow
• stay home from work if you are sick
• wear a face mask if you come into contact with others

To read more about ways to avoid infection as well as keep from spreading the swine flu virus see this Web MD post: http://blogs.webmd.com/breaking-news/2009/08/whats-your-best-defense-against-swine.html