When we get sick, will covering our mouths really keep germs from spreading? 

The expert, Dr. Nicole M. Bouvier, Assistant Professor of Infectious Diseases at Mount Sinai Hospital's Icahn School of Medicine, said: "It's not entirely clear". "Researchers have seen that a fair number of respiratory particles still escape into the surrounding air, even when an barrier like a tissue, sleeve, hand, or surgical mask is placed in front of the cougher's mouth." 

The best way to prevent germs from spreading is simply by washing your hands, Fox News reports. The right way to wash your hands is to lather up for 20 seconds, vigorously rubbing both sides and under fingernails before rinsing well. If you go the hand sanitizer route, apply a generous layer and allow it to dry completely.