Good manners never go out of style, but with the arrival of cold and flu season, it might be time to reconsider a few outdated traditions. Learn how to avoid spreading germs to others (or getting stick yourself) with these cold and flu season good manners.

It doesn’t take long during the fall or winter months to encounter someone suffering from a cold or flu. The sniffles, sneezing and runny noses are enough trigger to pause before shaking hands. Because colds and influenza (the flu) are spread through contact, refusing to shake hands with someone isn’t rude — it’s prudent. Rather than being offended, most people are grateful you’re not exposing them to germs. When confronted with a social situation that warrants a handshake, express your pleasure at meeting them, but decline to shake hands, letting them know about your efforts to staying healthy this year. Most people will understand.

Ideally, your employer has a sick policy that encourages people to stay home when sick. If you aren’t that fortunate or have run out of sick days, use the following proactive steps to reduce the risk to coworkers:

• Use disinfecting wet-wipes to open doors, pick up the telephone and sanitize other high-touch areas.
• Leave the room before sneezing or coughing. If you are unable to leave before sneezing or coughing, use the crook of your elbow/upper sleeve rather than your hand. This reduces the risk of spreading germs by keeping your hands relatively clean.
• Wash your hands frequently throughout the day.
• Avoid close contact with others whenever possible. Stand just a little farther away than normal and let others know you are ill.
• Avoid buffets and eating with others.
• Bring a spray disinfectant like Lysol that works against the cold and flu virus. Use it in confined areas.
• As with coughing or sneezing, it is preferable to excuse yourself to the restroom when blowing your nose. If this isn’t possible, blow quietly, apologize and wash your hands.
• Throw away tissues and other hygiene products as soon as they are used.

Use good gym hygiene during cold and flu season even if you don’t see signs of sickness. People are often contagious before becoming visibly ill or they may return to their regular routines before completely well. Guard against either situation with these simple steps:

• Wash down equipment before using. Not only do people often sweat a great deal when working out, but the warm environment also makes for the perfect breeding ground for germs.
• Skip the spa and sauna. Avoid areas with excessive heat and humidity to prevent the transmission of fast growing germs.
• Bring a bottle of hand sanitizer to use during workouts.

It’s no surprise that cold and flu season correspond to the time of year when people entertain indoors.

• Avoid hosting buffet-style parties. Open plates, finger foods and exposed foods can spread germs quickly.
• If a server is ill, ask management for a replacement. Explain your concerns.
• Advise guests about potential illness and make it easy to decline or reschedule should the situation arise.