Help Prevent the Spread of Germs at the Y
Here at the Monroe County YMCA, health is our utmost concern. During the flu season, we want to remind our members to be extra cautious in order to prevent the spread of germs. We have several Y members who are more susceptible to contracting illnesses, such as our youth, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems.
Here is how we actively prevent the spread of germs within our facilities:
- We use an electrostatic disinfection device, called E-Mist, that covers 80,000 square-feet within two hours. The mist must be left on the surface in order to allow enough time for it to spread across the surface and dry. Please do not wipe down areas if you see this device in use.
- The green microfiber towels in the Wellness Center and Weight Room as well as our cleaning towels trap bacteria and prevent it from transferring to another surface. We use microfiber towels instead of paper towels or cotton towels, which only wipe around the germs rather than removing them.
- It is our Y’s policy for members to wipe down fitness equipment and weights after use with the provided green microfiber towels, so please adhere to this policy.
- All used towels are bleached, and an ozone-generating disinfection is used.
- We use a hospital-grade disinfectant for our cleaning practices. The contact time for individual cleaners varies, so the most effective means is to let it air dry instead of wiping down a wet surface.
- There is a difference between cleaning and disinfecting. Every day, it is our priority to disinfect our facilities to prevent the spread of germs. While you might see a dust ball in our hallways, this doesn’t mean our facilities aren’t being disinfected. In fact, staff make it more of a priority to disinfect than to clean, which is why you might see a dust ball or dirt around the facility occasionally.
Here are some reminders from the CDC on how you can help keep yourself and others healthy:
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing. We also have hand sanitizer dispensers throughout the facility for you to use.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Stay home when you are sick.
We will continue to monitor what the CDC recommends to prevent the spread of germs, and we will update our members accordingly. Thank you for your help as we work together to prevent the spread of germs within our facilities.
