Flu Prevention – Avoiding the Latest Bug

It’s that time of year. The holidays are upon us, and the extra stress and exposure to crowds of people can make us more susceptible to illness. So, to avoid catching the flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests a three-step approach:

• Get a flu vaccination every year.
• If you suspect the flu, seek early treatment. There are prescription antiviral drugs that can treat the flu.
• Take everyday preventative actions to slow the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like the flu.

The CDC suggests these everyday preventive actions:

• Avoid close contact with sick people
• If you or your child is sick, stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water if available, or use alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects such as doorknobs, keyboards and phones.

No one wants to catch the latest “bug” that’s going around. Take these preventive actions, stay healthy and enjoy spending time with family and friends during the holiday season.