WHITE NOISE

What is White Noise?

White noise is the noise created when all audible frequencies of sound are combined at the same time and the same density. It is similar in nature to white light, which occurs when all the colors of the spectrum are brought together. White noise incorporates over 20,000 frequencies. Also called white sound, white noise is used primarily as a sleep or relaxation aid.

The actual sound produced by white noise is comparable to rainfall or ocean waves. It is a gentle tone that can be found in nature. Because white noise combines all frequencies of sound ranging from very low tones to high pitches, it is very useful in masking other noises and sounds.

Fans and radio stations with no broadcast are often used as white noise simulators, providing a soothing sound that blocks out other background noises. While these methods do not produce true white noise, their effects are a good example of practical uses for white sound. The main drawback to using this variety of white noise, however, is that the user has no control over the volume or frequencies produced in this manner.

Consumers can also purchase white noise that has been recorded onto a CD, which is less expensive than investing in a white noise machine. In addition to cost effectiveness, CDs allow the user to alter the bass and treble of the noise to mask lower or higher background sounds in any given location.

STOPPING THE SPREAD OF GERMS (FLU)

Stopping the Spread of Germs (FLU)

Illnesses like the flu (influenza) and colds are caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs and usually spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The flu and cold virus is usually prominent during rainy season, and is typically known as "flu season." It is important to know treatment and prevention options, so that one can be prepared.

These are a few tips that can help prevent the spread of germs:

Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose, or Mouth-Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs can live for a long time on surfaces like doorknobs, desks, and tables.

Cover Your Mouth and Nose When You Sneeze or Cough: Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then throw it away. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Wash your hands every time you cough or sneeze.

Wash Your Hands Often: When available, wash your hands with soap and warm water, then rub your hands vigorously together and scrub all surfaces for 15 - 20 seconds. It is the soap combined with the scrubbing action that helps dislodge and remove germs.

When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. If using a gel, rub the gel in your hands until they are dry. The alcohol in the gel kills germs that cause colds and the flu.

Stay Home When Sick - Check with a Doctor When NeededWhen you are sick or have flu symptoms, stay home, get plenty of rest, and check with a doctor as needed. Keeping your distance from others may protect them from getting sick. Common symptoms of the flu include:
High Fever
Cough
Headache
Extreme tiredness
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (more common among children than adults)

Practice Other Good Health Habits: Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Practicing healthy habits will help you stay healthy during flu season and all year long.