This year the flu season has started earlier than usual and is more severe than it has been during the last few years.  Some important everyday actions can prevent the spread of germs, and hopefully prevent you or your family from contracting this virus.

Prevention:

• Good Hand washing. Good Hand washing. Good Hand washing.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If not available, use alcohol-based hand scrub.
• This virus can spread from person to person and live on surfaces.
• Avoid touching or wash hands after contact with objects that are used by other people such as railings, door knobs, keyboards, etc.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Avoid contact with individuals who are ill. 
• Vaccinate yourself; it’s not too late.

Symptoms:

• Fever, Cough, Sore Throat, Runny or Stuffy Nose, Body aches, Headache, Chills and Fatigue. 
• Some may have respiratory symptoms without a fever.
• A few may have vomiting and diarrhea as well.

If you become sick:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Throw tissue into the trash immediately after using. 
• If unavailable, cough or sneeze into crook of arm.
• Avoid contact with others in order to limit the spread of the infection.  
• Contact your physician.  He/She may recommend antiviral medications. These medications must be started within the first 2 days of symptoms and may make your illness milder and shorten the time you are sick.  
• Drink plenty of fluids, and get rest.  
• Stay Home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the help of fever reducing medicine.