Infectious diseases can cost many days of fun and learning for children and adults. Some, but not all illness, is inevitable. It is important to have an arrangement with a health professional to observe practices from time to time, and advise about how to prevent and manage infectious disease. Start by practicing easy routines to keep everyone healthier, without becoming germ-phobic. Good reference materials can help plan and implement preventive policies and procedures. This article discusses ways on how to make sense of germ control to stay healthy. Included is a list of books and web sites for reference on prevention and management of infections. (Contains 3 figures.)