5 Tips for Flu Prevention

5 Tips for Flu Prevention

We urge you to take the following 5 steps to protect against seasonal flu, as well as the H1N1 (swine flu) virus.

1. GET VACCINATED.
   • Get vaccinated for Seasonal Influenza (flu): available now.
   • Get vaccinated for H1N1 Influenza (swine flu) available late October if you are eligible.
2. Know the signs and symptoms of Influenza (Seasonal and H1N1 or swine flu)
   • Fever
   • Cough
   • Sore throat
   • Chills
   • Extreme tiredness
   • Runny or stuffy nose
   • Muscle aches
   • Headaches
3. Practice cough etiquette. Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or tissue.
4. Wash hands well and frequently (soap and water or hand sanitizer) and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
5. Avoid close contact with sick people.

The Following are 5 Tips for Taking Care of Yourself or a Loved One with the Flu:

1. Stay home and drink plenty of fluids.
2. Contact your Physician/Provider if you are feeling very sick, unable to keep down fluids, have trouble breathing or have a chronic illness (some examples: heart and lung diseases, diabetes, asthma) or are on steroid medication.
3. Stay home for 24 hours after your fever is gone (without the use of medication).
4. Take anti-virals only if directed by your physician.
5. Limit contact with others to prevent infecting them.