The fear of catching the H1N1 virus is all around us.

Wherever we turn we're swamped with messages about doing everything we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones from catching the virulent strain of the flu. Fundamental measures like washing our hands thoroughly and repeatedly throughout the day, using hand sanitizer, coughing into our elbows (not our hands), avoiding the company of others if we are sick, are pounded into us.

While we take these precautions in our homes and with those closest to us, it's important not to forget the people we come into casual contact with.

That bank teller you're about to hand some cash to? Don't cough or, worse, sneeze into your hand and then just plunk some bills on the counter for the poor employee to deal with. Can you imagine being forced to pick up that soggy legal tender?

Getting on the bus and handing a transfer to a driver? Make sure you didn't just cough or sneeze before you forked it over.

Exchanging cash for lottery tickets at the convenience store? Well, by now, you get the idea. Be considerate. Carry some hand sanitizer and use it liberally throughout the day to make sure your hands are clean.

If you are in a line and have to sneeze or cough, make sure you cover up or sneeze into your elbow.

Businesses are also trying to do their part to make sure they keep their workplaces as flu-safe as possible. Hand-washing reminders are in abundance and hand sanitizers are a constant at Meridian Credit Union's 44 branches. The credit union, which has offices in Pickering, Whitby and Clarington, has done pandemic planning and has precautions in place in case of a major outbreak.

Restaurants, especially, with staff having to deal with food, are paying close attention with hand-washing de rigeur and hand sanitizers in evidence at the Ajax Casey's restaurant. McDonald's Canada spokeswoman Louse Payette, said "McDonald's diligently adheres to the highest standards of hygiene and sanitation in our restaurants, including hand-washing procedures and cleaning of our PlayPlaces that meet or exceed the World Health Organization and the Public Health Agency of Canada's recommendations for helping prevent the spread of flu."

The key point to remember is containing the spread of H1N1 takes diligence and shouldn't be ignored just because you're outside your comfort zone. Don't forget to maintain flu vigilance when you are in line at the bank, waiting for coffee or getting your groceries. We all need to be safe this season.