How to Sneeze or Cough with Proper Respiratory Etiquette

Not covering your nose or mouth when coughing or sneezing can lead to the potential spread of the novel coronavirus pneumonia (NCP), if infected. The Pharmacy Department at Beijing United Family Hospital teaches us the proper respiratory etiquette in the demonstration below.

Note: The staff in the following clips have no fever or flu symptoms. The coughing or sneezing depicted in the images might be slightly exaggerated for demonstration purposes only.

Situation 1: If you have immediate access to a tissue

Step 1：Hold your cough or sneeze and get 1-2 pieces of tissue.

Step 2: Cover your nose and mouth with the tissue and sneeze into the tissue.

Step 3: Fold the contaminated side inward and toss it into a trash can.

Step 4: Clean your hands thoroughly after disposing of the tissue.

Situation 2: If you do not have immediate access to a tissue

Step 1：Hold your cough or sneeze.

Step 2: Lift your dominant arm and bend it over your nose and mouth. Sneeze or  cough into the inside of your elbow.

Step 3: Clean your hands thoroughly after sneezing or coughing.

Now you’ve learned the proper way to sneeze and cough. It only takes a couple of tissues or lifting your arm to protect yourself and those around you.

Reference：

CDC：Cover sneeze or cough.

The Beijing United Family Hospital Pharmacy is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our international team of pharmacists are always ready to answer your questions about medicines and regularly attend training programs both in China and overseas to keep up with the latest developments in the field of pharmacy and to provide patients with refined services to ensure patient safety.