Tips to Help Prevent the Flu

Your health is important in so many ways.  With the worry of Swine flu and being that this is the flu season, there are some simple steps that we can take to help fight the flu epidemic.  The best way to avoid the flu is to be vaccinated each year.  Call your primary care physician for more information and to arrange for a flu shot if you have not already done so in the early part of Fall.  Other resources in your community may offer flu shots, including local pharmacies, health centers or work sites.

Also, good health habits can often help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu:

1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
2. Stay home when you are sick to help prevent others from catching your illness.
3. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
4. Clean your hands often to help protect you from germs.  Local stores also sell a variety of Hand Sanitizers.  I would highly recommend one in your work place and my favorite is the little bottle that includes the connection to hang on your key chain.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; germs often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated.
6. Practice other good health habits, such as get plenty of sleep, be active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.