be used (worthless cloths,
which can be at once burned, are far better), they should be
boiled at least half an hour in water by themselves before
being washed. When coughing or sneezing small particles of
spittle containing germs are expelled, so that consumptives
should always hold a handkerchief or cloth before the mouth
during these acts; otherwise the use of cloths and
handkerchiefs to receive the matter coughed up should be
avoided as much as possible, because it readily dries on these
and becomes separated and scattered into the air. Hence, when
possible, the matter should be received into cups or flasks.
Paper cups are better than ordinary cups, as the former with
their contents may be burned after being used. A pocket flask
of glass, metal, or pasteboard is also a most convenient
receptacle to spit in when away from home. Cheap and convenient
forms of flasks and cups may be purchased at many drug stores.
Patients too weak to use a cup should use moist rags, which
should at once be burned. If cloths are used they should not be
carried loose in the pocket, but in a waterproof receptacle
(tobacco pouch), which should be frequently boiled. A
consumptive should never swallow his expectoration.

A consumptive should have his own bed, and, if possible, his
own room. The room should always have an abundance of fresh
air--the window should be open day and night. The patient's
soiled wash-cloths and bed linen should be handled as little as
possible when dry, but should be placed in water until ready
for washing.

Rooms should be cleaned daily, but in order to prevent the
raising of dust, all floors must be well sprinkled before
sweeping, and all dusting, etc., done with damp cloths.

If the matter coughed up be rendered harmless, a consumptive
may frequently not only do his usual work without giving the
disease to others, but may also thus improve his own condition
and increase his chances of getting well.

Rooms which have been occupied by consumptives should be
thoroughly cleaned, scrubbed, and whitewashed, painted, or
papered before they are again occupied. Carpets, rugs, bedding,
etc., from rooms which have been occupied by consumptives,
should be disinfected. Such articles, if the Department of
Health be notified, wil