Why do we cough into our elbow?

1. 1

   Clover says

   When you cough or sneeze, tiny germs fly out into the air. If you catch them in your hands, your hands carry them to the next things you touch: the ball, the apples, your friend. Your elbow doesn't pick things up. So a cough into your elbow keeps the germs from getting passed around.

   For ages 4–7
   Hear Clover

   Checked against Sharing is great! But don't share germs! (KidsHealth)

2. 2

   Why not let a cough fly into the air?

   Remember how fast a sneeze zooms out? Coughs and sneezes carry germs out into the air, and they can drift over to people nearby. A tissue makes a great catcher, because you can put it in the bin and then wash your hands. When there's no tissue handy, your elbow is the next best catcher.

   For ages 6–9
   Hear Clover

   Checked against Healthy Habits: Coughing and Sneezing (CDC)

In Lil' Phil, reaching the bottom of this wonder earns a sticker for Clover's collection.

• 

  Why do we sneeze?

  Ages 4–9Clover
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  Why do we wash our hands?

  Ages 4–9Clover