Preventing the Flu
October 15, 2004
Vaccination
The single best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each fall.
Getting Vaccinated
About the Vaccine & Vaccine Supply
Good Health Habits
Learn more at Stopping the Spread of Germs at Home, Work & School.
- Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
- Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
- Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
- Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
Medications
Antiviral Medications can also be used to prevent the flu. For more information, see Antiviral Drugs and the Flu.
Related Links
- Smoking and Influenza
Some studies show that smokers are more likely to get the flu, and there is a higher mortality rate from the flu among smokers than.nonsmokers.
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