Steps You Can Take to Avoid Catching the Flu

Do your part and help stop the spread of flu. Serious lung illnesses are spread by coughing or sneezing, and unclean hands. To help stop the spread of germs:

• Avoid contact with others who have a cold or the flu.
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes as this makes it easier for viruses to enter your body.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Put all used tissue into the wastebasket.
• Wash your hands with soap and water. Wash for 15 to 20 seconds – it is the soap combined with the scrubbing action that helps dislodge and remove germs.
• Use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers if soap and water are not available.
• If your child has a cold, wash his/her toys after play.
• Keep surfaces clean with a virus-killing disinfectant to help prevent the spread of infection. A solution of 1 part bleach mixed with 10 parts water is also effective in killing viruses.
• Eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of fluids, get plenty of sleep, be physically active, and avoid stress.

When you are sick or have flu symptoms, stay home! Remember – keeping your distance from others may protect them from getting sick.

Source:   Federal Citizen Information Center