ATLANTA As the cold and flu season approaches, a paper company is launching a campaign to combat bad habits that contribute to the illnesses’ spread.

Georgia-Pacific Professional announced Wednesday the launch of its Spread Wellness campaign, designed to teach people proper techniques of washing and drying hands when away from home, especially after coughing and sneezing; according to a 2009 study by the Soap and Detergent Association, 39% of people seldom do so.

The campaign’s website, Spread-Wellness.com, includes links, tips and education materials. People also can sign up to become “Wellness Ambassadors” and receive a kit with a Spread Wellness wristband.

“With the easy transfer of germs and diseases, we all need to be more aware of our surroundings,” Georgia-Pacific Professional president Bill Sleeper stated. “We need to practice good hygiene habits ourselves and share these tips with those we interact with.”