Yes, it’s getting to be that time of year again. Flu season is almost upon us and national health organizations are all predicting it’s going to be a bad one. The good news is that there are simple and effective measures you can take to help protect yourself, and others, from contracting and spreading the flu virus.
Get vaccinated. The CDC recommends a yearly seasonal flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against seasonal influenza. Vaccines are especially important for those at high risk: young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease. In addition to the seasonal vaccine, the CDC is recommending the new H1N1 vaccine, when available.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue out after use. Do no cover with your hand as this can simply lead to the spread of germs.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective. The college provides Purell dispensers throughout the building for your use.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
If you get sick, stay home! Also, limit your contact with others to keep them from also getting infected.
Stay informed and follow the advice of local health officials.
The symptoms of the flu include fever (usually high), headache, extreme tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting. If you think you may have the flu, consult with your doctor early on for advice on the best treatment.
For additional information, go to www.cdc.gov or www.flu.gov.
—Jess Muller, Coordinator of Administrative Services
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