| Get
Vaccinated. Vaccination is
the best protection against contracting
the flu. Everyone 6 months of age and
older should get vaccinated against the
flu as soon as the 2010-2011 season
vaccine is available in your area. More
information on vaccination.
If
you do contract the flu, talk to your
doctor about antivirals. Antiviral
drugs are prescription medicines (pills,
liquid or an inhaler) that can be used
for prevention or treatment of flu
viruses. If you get sick, antiviral
drugs can make your illness milder and
make you feel better faster. More
information on medications and
antivirals.
Take
these everyday steps to protect your
health: |
 |
- Cover
your nose and mouth
with a tissue when you cough or
sneeze. Throw the tissue in the
trash after you use it.
|
- Wash
your hands often with
soap and water, especially after
you cough or sneeze.
Alcohol-based hand cleaners are
also effective.
|
- Avoid
touching your eyes, nose or
mouth. Germs spread
this way.
|
- Try
to avoid close contact with sick
people.
|
- Stay
home if you are sick until at
least 24 hours after you no
longer have a fever (100°F
or 37.8°C) or signs of a
fever (without the use of a
fever-reducing medicine, such as
TylenolŪ).
|
- Follow
public health advice regarding
school closures, avoiding crowds
and other social distancing
measures.
|
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| If
you must have close contact with a sick
person (for example, hold a sick
infant), try to wear a facemask or N95
disposable respirator. More
on Facemasks and Respirators |
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