The Proper Way To Cough

When I was young, we learned the drill On how to cough; I do it still Until my brain gives me a nudge, Reminding me that others judge. For I was taught to cough in hand So that’s where all the germs would land Instead of floating in the air To be breathed in by others there. We never thought about the fact That all those germs would stay intact Contaminating all we touch Like doorknobs, subway poles and such. And back when we lived pre-Purell, Bacteria we would expel Would coat our palms, a big mistake If someone gave his hand to shake. Today, to keep us off the hook Our coughs should go into the crook That’s formed by having elbows bent; The spread of germs this might prevent. Just one thing isn’t really clear. If to this tactic, folks adhere Then why are colds still being caught? So many sleeves be-germed for naught!