Preventing the spread of germs during cold and flu season is important in keeping workers, students and healthcare professionals healthy. It’s also very expensive, the estimated average total economic burden of influenza to the U.S. healthcare system and society is $11.2 billion.

How is the cold or flu virus spread?  

Cold and flu season can happen year-round. Activity normally begins in October and peaks from December through February. Exposure to cold or flu germs is as simple as being sneezed on or giving a handshake because the virus can be spread by air or by hand.   

Proper hand hygiene is one of the most effective measures in reducing the spread of germs and preventing illness, according to the CDC. 

How can the spread of cold or flu viruses be prevented? 

In addition to regular hand-washing, we offer several products that can help prevent the spread of cold and flu including: 

Kleenex^®, one of the world's most recognizable and respected brands, has many hygienic solutions for keeping hands germ free including hand sanitizer and facial tissue. 

Kleenex^® Anti-Viral†† Facial Tissue has a treated middle layer that kills 99.9% of cold and flu viruses. This patented, one-of-kind tissue stamps out viruses within 15 minutes. 

Kleenex Reveal^™ Ultra Moisturizing Foam Hand Sanitizer features an antimicrobial strength formulation that's gentle enough to leave hands feeling nourished and healthy. It utilizes natural cucumber and green tea extracts to moisturize skin and improve hydration by 30%. 

¹ “Economic Burden of Seasonal Influenza in the United States.” Vaccine 36, no. 27 (June 22, 2018): 3960-966. Abstract accessed July 17, 2018.

^†† In the tissue within 15 minutes. Virucidal against: Rhinoviruses Type 1A and 2 (rhinoviruses are the leading cause of the common cold), Influenza A and Influenza B (causes of the flu), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV, the leading cause of lower respiratory infection in children).