CUTTING THE RISK

CUTTING THE RISK
Precautions to take
Here what you can do to reduce your chances of getting -- or spreading -- the flu or other contagious respiratory illnesses.
PROTECTING YOURSELF:
Wash your hands routinely with soap and warm water for at least 20 to 30 seconds after coming into contact with others.
Do not touch your face before washing hands after contact with others.
Avoid contact with people with a respiratory illness or with items they may have touched.
Ask your health care providers if they are making special accommodations for sick patients or instituting other changes to prevent transmission of respiratory illness in their offices.
PROTECTING OTHERS:
Stay home from work when ill with a respiratory illness.
Do not send your children to school, parties or other events when they are ill.
Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.
Dispose of used tissues appropriately.
Source: Dr. Eddy A. Bresnitz, Deputy Commissioner/State Epidemiologist, New Jersey Department of Health & amp; Senior Services