Precautions to take

Flu prevention tips:

• Get a flu shot (preferably before flu season starts and every year since the influenza virus changes over time). Protection begins within a few days after a vaccination, but the vaccine is not fully effective until about 14 days after vaccination.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• When you cover or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder; not into your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• If you have diagnosed with the flu, stay home from work, school, and social gatherings as you can spread the virus up to five days after becoming sick. This will help prevent others from catching your illness and gives your body the rest it needs to recover. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist about over-the-counter and prescription medications to ease flu symptoms and help you feel better faster.

SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)