Protect Yourself from the Flu

“Take 3” Actions to Fight the Flu

#1 Vaccinate

- A yearly vaccine is recommended

- This year’s vaccine protects you from an influenza A H3N2 virus, an influenza B virus and the 2009 H1N1 virus.

- Everyone 6 months of age and over should get vaccinated especially those at high risk of serious flu complications including young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and those over the age of 65 years.

#2 Stop Germs

- Practice proper sneeze and cough etiquette – Cough and sneeze into a tissue and throw the tissue out immediately. If no tissue is available, cough and sneeze into upper arm.

- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If no soap/water available use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.

- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

- If you are sick with flu-like illness stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care.

- While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

#3 Antiviral Drugs

- Given to those at risk of severe flu illness such as pregnant women, young children, people 65 and older and people with certain chronic health conditions

- If you get the flu, antiviral drugs can treat your illness.

- They are different from antibiotics, but are available only through prescription.

- They must be started early(within the first 2 days of symptoms)

 

Flu Like Symptoms Include:

-fever                                                                     -body aches

-cough                                                                  -headache

-sore throat                                                          -chills

-runny or stuffy nose                                           -fatigue

Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have respiratory symptoms without fever.