How to Prevent the Flu This Flu Season
It may seem like common sense but these simple steps can help prevent the flu.The Flu Vaccine - Physicians agree that the best defense against the flu is the flu vaccine and the flu vaccine is particularly important for these groups: Afraid of needles ? Ask your physician about the nasal spray vaccine.
Free flu shots are now available at the Garfield County Health Department from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call ahead if you plan to come after Noon. INTEGRIS is also providing free flu shots at the INTEGRIS Bass Pavilion on October 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Nov. 2 from 8 a.m. to Noon.Cover your coughs and sneezes – Use a tissue when coughing or sneezing, this can help others from becoming ill from not only the flu but a variety of other illnesses. Stay home - If you are sick, stay home from work, or school, or even running errands. Try to limit contact with others who are sick.Disinfect – Life can seem like an obstacle course of germs this time of year. Shopping carts, counter tops, hand rails, and door knobs can present a variety of germs and potential sickness. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.Frequent Handwashing – Wash your hands often and try to remember not to touch your eyes, nose and mouth. Handwashing technique is important too. The CDC offers these handwashing steps:
- Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
- Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
- Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
- Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
- Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
Stay healthy, my friends and get your flu shot !