Flu Prevention

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is predicting the 2009 - 2010 influenza season to significantly impact a large number of individuals, due in combination to the H1N1 strain as well as early start to the flu season. There are several preventative measures the CDC recommends in preparation for the already in progress influenza season.

CDC Flu Prevention Recommendations:

1. Get a flu vaccine. Vaccination is especially important for people at high risk of serious flu complications, including young children, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and people 65 years and older.

2. Follow everyday prevention efforts.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.*

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)

While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other measures to keep our distance from each other to lessen the spread of flu.

3. Follow your Primary Care Doctor's anti-viral drug recommendations, should you become ill with the flu.

MindBodyHealth offers several additional recommendations.

Monitor stress. Chronic, as well as acute stress can impact immune system functioning and lead to a higher risk of becoming ill in the first place. Proactively manage stress through daily exercise, balanced diet, and mindful awareness.

Get plenty of sleep. The average adult requires 7 - 8 hours of sleep per night for healthy living. Adolescents typically require 8 - 10 hours of sleep per night. Sleep needs are very individualistic, and it is important to realize how much sleep you need, Be sure you are getting enough in order for your body to be rested and fight off illness.

Drink plenty of water.

Wash your hands frequently and/or keep anti-septic hand sanitizer nearby. This includes having a bottle at work, in your car, in your kitchen and bathrooms.