TARAfying's advice column

askTARAfying

advice column ask question view feedback favorite columnist advicenators

Q: I have a deep fear of germs and getting sick. Even the thought of catching a regular cold drives me crazy. I was my hands for 10 minutes, and at school, I wear a bandanna that covers my nose and mouth to help keep the germs away. I mean, hey it's not my fault that kids at my school go swimming in 10 degree weather over the weekend, and then catch a cold. Basically Everyone is sick at my school ALL the time.

Some of my teachers get mad at me when I wear my bandanna, but if they make me sit next to, talk to, and help out sick people, why shouldn't I be able to wear it? I'm not going to get sick because of one stupid person. Last week, I skipped alot of my classes just because I sat next to sick people in them and I don't want to get sick. Mainly because I just started working out, and if I'm sick, I won't be able to work out. (yes, working out is REALLY important to me.)

Now my question, I guess my question is, is there anything else I can do from getting sick? Any healthy tips that you can inform me on? (Besides obvious stuff like washing your hands.) Do you think the bandanna is a good idea? I've actually considered wearing a surgical mask but then people would think I'm even weirder.

Also, how possible is it that I'm going to get sick if I sit next to someone sick, for about 45 minutes every day? (Keep in mind that I'm wearing my bandanna over my nose and mouth.) ANY advice you have would be helpful because I'm flipping out right now.

I would definately hold off on the surgical mask. One kid in my middle school class wore one occsionally & I must admitt it looked pretty weird. As for the bandana, I think it's a little much but if you feel the need for it.. go for it! You say your teachers make you sit next to & associate with sick kids. Explain your situation in depth. They should understand your condition & seat you next to healthy students. Maybe even get a doctors note that prohibits them to do this any longer. I'm pretty sure you carry around sometime of anti-bacterial wipe or cleanser? If not, buy one & bring it to school. Such as baby wipes or hand sanitizer. You can use the wipes to clean of your desk before sitting down, etc & use the sanitizer to wash your hands when a sink isn't avaliable. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth at all costs!.. when around a sick person. If you ever feel yourself getting ill, take tylenol (or whatever type of pill you use) at the first sign. DO NOT GO OVER BOARD W/ THE MEDICINE. I can't stress that enough. I'm sure you're a smart girl/or boy that knows what ammount is safe. Besides all this info, try talking to you doctor... he should have plenty of helpful tips. Hope I helped.