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Sep 08
2020

Flu Prevention

Posted by Scott  filed under Flu

Influenza or the flu is a common respiratory illness. Its symptoms can seem mild at first, but in some cases the flu can cause severe injury or even death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated against it. 

Before and after getting vaccinated, there are additional steps everyone can take to stop the spread of germs and prevent the flu:

  • Keep away from people who are sick. If you must go near someone who’s sick, keep your distance. If you’re caring for someone who’s sick, be sure to wash your hands regularly.
  • If you’re sick, stay home. If you get sick, it's best not to leave the house. If you can, don’t go to work, school, or run any errands until you get better. If you’re out and about and start to feel sick, try to head home as soon as possible.
  • Wash your hands. Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap and hot water. If there’s no water available, at least use hand sanitizer.
  • Cover your mouth. When you cough or sneeze, don’t do it into your hand or shoulder; cover your mouth with a tissue or cough into your elbow.
  • Try not to touch your face or eyes. Germs can be spread when you touch your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching something that's been contaminated. Try to avoid touching your face unless you’ve washed your hands recently.
  • Clean frequently touched surfaces. Doorknobs, countertops, keyboards, phones, and other things we touch regularly can have plenty of germs on them. Be sure to clean these surfaces regularly to prevent the spread of germs.

NOTE:  Flu activity usually picks up in October in the United States.  The CDC recommends getting your vaccine early this year, especially for those with respiratory conditions.  The challenges normally experienced during flu season are expected to be magnified in 2020-21 due to COVID-19.  For more information, contact your primary care provider and familiarize yourself with the information provided by the CDC.

References

Collier, Jasmin. (2018). How to avoid catching the flu. Retrieved from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321005.php

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). Flu Season.” Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/season/index.html

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