It is officially autumn and with that cold season is just around the corner. Washington Public Health is reminding those ill to stay home and to keep kids home from school when they are sick. Staying home can reduce the spread of contagious viruses, states Lynn Fisher with Washington Public Health. She states that if someone has symptoms, such as fever, vomiting, diarhea, ear aches or sore throat, they should stay home. Also, Fisher adds that the simplest and one of the most effective ways to prevent contracting illness is to wash hands regularly and thoroughly.