Covering cuts or sores on hands and having to avoid sneezing in handling food and preparation is important because this will prevent food borne illness from occurring, such as staphylococcus. The staphylococcus is considered to be gram positive bacteria where in it resides in the skin and mucous membranes of an individual, that is why it is best to sanitize hands and cover wounds when preparing for food to prevent contamination of bacteria in the food that is being handled.