According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, businesses in America lose an average of 2.8 million work days each year due to unplanned absences--costing more than $74 billion. Of that total, nearly $55 billion is attributed to illness. With these tips and tricks for being a healthy party host and guest focused on staying well while having fun, you can avoid being a statistic while still enjoying the holidays.

• Show up feeling well. If you have been sick, send


• your condolences, but do not show up at a party with a fever, cold, or the flu.


• Keep greetings to a minimum with "air kisses" and brief hugs.


• Wash your hands often. Wash before eating. Wash after eating. And of course, wash thoroughly after using the restroom.


• If you need to cough or sneeze, wander away from the crowd. Coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your sleeve controls your germs. If you do end up coughing or sneezing into your hands, wash them immediately.


• Control your beverage; ensure that you are the only one sipping from it. When in doubt, throw it out.


• Only handle food with your hands once it's been put on your plate, and only with clean hands.


• If you are tasting from another party guest's plate, use your own utensil.