Flu Prevention Tips

Don’t have the flu and don’t want to get it? There are some simple health habits you can work into your life to minimize the chances of getting the flu.

Wash those hands

The flu virus can spread by direct contact, such as sharing drinks, or through indirect contact, such as when an infected coworker sneezes on her hands and touches an object like the lunchroom microwave door. The influenza virus can live for 2 to 8 hours on surfaces. During flu season, everyone should wash their hands frequently to reduce the risk of transmitting germs to others. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.*¹

Cover your sneezes and coughs

When you sneeze or cough, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue (not your hands), and be sure to throw the tissue away immediately.

You can also cough into your sleeve if you don't have a tissue handy. Hand sanitizers can also help. Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth to keep germs away.

If soap and water are not available and alcohol-based products are not allowed, other hand sanitizers that do not contain alcohol may be useful.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Preventing Seasonal Flu Illness Questions and Answers. http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/preventing.htm#hand-sanitizers/.
Accessed December 18, 2012.

Additional resources

Influenza isn’t usually something you think about until flu season comes around
or until you or a family member comes down with the flu.

In this section, you will find valuable downloadable resources for the flu season:

Downloads

Flu Symptoms at a Glance
(PDF file, 495KB)

Fight the Flu
(PDF file, 792KB)

Now That You Have the Flu
(PDF file, 1.06MB)

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Flu Fighter Coloring Book

Arm your child with the F.A.C.T.S. about flu and have fun while doing it.
Download coloring book ›

Developed in partnership with NFID* and NASN**.

*National Foundation for Infectious Diseases
**National Association of School Nurses
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Sponsored by the NFID (National Foundation for Infectious Diseases)
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