The dessert tray isn't the only health threat on the holiday party circuit: A recent editorial in JAMA calls out handshakes as a major germ-spreading hazard. Osteopath Rob Danoff offers this range of healthy (and not) hellos. WORST: Handshake Your palm = germ hot spot, and the extended contact makes it a no-go in cold-and-flu season. If you must clasp hands, wash up ASAP. BAD: High five It's a hit-and-run handshake: same germy contact point but only half the bacteria transfer on account of the speed. OK: Cheek kiss Generally safe if neither greeter is coughing or sneezing. (Stand under the mistletoe at your own risk.) GOOD: Hug Turn your head away and go gentle—hugs that force breath out of the lungs lead to airborne pathogens. BETTER: Fist bump Bug transfer is far lower than with a standard shake. Bonus: capturing Grandma's first fist bump on camera. BEST: Smile and wave Illustration by Tobatron Yeah, a little rude. But isn't keeping everyone healthy the kindest regards of all? source
