Wednesday, January 16, 2013

All about the flu

The flu season is in full swing and reaching epidemic proportions in much of the US. What can you do to protect yourself? The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year – and it’s not too late to get vaccinated.
It’s important to keep in mind that the best way to fight the flu is to avoid exposure to the flu in the first place. In addition to getting vaccinated, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the following preventive measures:
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
If possible, stay home from work and school and don't run errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
The flu viruses are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with them and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.

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