COLUMBIA – Taking sensible steps to protect against illness can help keep the holidays happy, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control has advised.

"Being with friends and family during the holidays is important," said Jerry Gibson, M.D., director of DHEC's Bureau of Disease Control. "But it's important to take sensible steps to protect yourself and others from contagious illnesses such as Novel H1N1 influenza, and food borne illnesses like salmonella and E. coli."

Dr. Gibson said frequent hand washing would help control the spread of viruses and bacteria that can make you sick.

"Even after you've recovered from your illness, you might still have the ability to make others sick by coughing, sneezing and poor hand hygiene," he said.

Gibson said it is important to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash. If no tissue is available, use your upper sleeve. Then wash your hands again.

"Improperly cooked turkey is another source of holiday illness," said Sandra Craig, director of DHEC's Division of Food Protection. "Be sure to completely thaw the turkey if it's frozen. Thawing allows the turkey to cook thoroughly. Also, the turkey should be cooked separately from the stuffing.