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Preventing the Flu

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QUICK TIPS Aside from getting vaccinated, people can take several simple steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from influenza: Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water. Teach children the same habits. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough and sneeze, preferably with a facial tissue or your arm, not your hands. Promptly discard used facial tissues. If you are sick with cough and/or fever, stay home from work or school until you recover Clean surfaces you touch frequently (doorknobs, water faucets, refrigerator handle, telephones) Contact your medical provider if you are experiencing severe cold or flu symptoms that you believe require medical attention How can I stay healthy? Clean your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, if possible. Get vaccinated! Influenza (flu) and pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccines can prevent some serious respiratory illnesses. How do I stop the spread of germs if I am sick? Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze. Throw the used tissue in a waste basket. If you don't have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve. After coughing or sneezing, always clean your hands with soap & water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Stay home when you are sick. Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or other personal items. When you are at the clinic or hospital: Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and dispose of the used tissue in the waste basket. Clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner. You may also be asked to wear a mask to protect others. SOURCE: Minnesota Department of Health