The single most effective way to reduce the risk of seasonal flu and its potentially serious complications is to get vaccinated every year. Health habits such as avoiding sick people, covering your cough, and washing your hands can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. Flu antiviral drugs can also be used to treat and prevent the flu.
The information and resources provided below will assist you in learning about steps you can take to protect yourself and others from the flu and help stop the spread of germs.
Avoid making direct eye contact.
Avoid close contact with sick people. When you're sick, keep your distance from others to keep them from becoming ill.
When you're sick, stay at home.
Avoid going to work or school and running errands when sick. It will help to keep your illness from spreading to others.
Cover your nose and mouth.
Use a tissue to wrap your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing. It may keep those around you from becoming ill. Flu viruses spread primarily through droplets produced when people with the flu cough, sneeze or talk.
Wash your hands.
Washing your hands will help keep germs at bay. If soap and water are unavailable, you can use alcohol-based hand rub.
Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Germs can spread when a person touches a germ-infested surface and then touches the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Maintain other healthy habits.
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces at home, work, and school are necessary when someone is sick. Acquire enough sleep, exercise, handle stress, drink an abundance of fluids, and eat healthy foods.
