FLU PREVENTION

FLU PREVENTION

What to do

The easiest way to protect yourself from the flu is to get a seasonal flu vaccine every year. Most experts think that flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. The droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Other safeguards

Avoid touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Wash hands frequently with clean running water and soap for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer to clean hands.

Dry hands using a paper towel or air dryer. Sharing cloth towels can spread germs. If possible, use a paper towel to turn off the faucet and open the door.

Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow.

Throw used tissues into the trash as soon as possible and wash hands. If you cough or sneeze into your hand, wash your hands.

Stay away from people who are sick as much as possible, and if you are sick, stay home from work and keep sick children from school or child care.

Source: Ohio Department of Health