Yesterday's Tuesday Tip
Flu Prevention: Take 3!
When it comes to preventing the onset of the various influenza viruses, including H1N1 (swine flu), the CDC urges you to take the following actions to protect yourself and others:
1. Take time to get a flu vaccine.
2. Take everyday preventive actions.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, as germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid contact with sick people.
- If you are sick with flu-like symptoms, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical care.
- While sick, limit contact with others.
3. Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor recommends them.
- If you get seasonal or 2009 H1N1 flu, antiviral drugs can help treat the flu.
- Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body.
- Antiviral drugs can make illness milder and shorten the time you are sick. They may also prevent serious flu complications.
- Antiviral drugs are not sold over-the-counter and are different from antibiotics.
- For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started within the first two days of symptoms.
- Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea. Please note: people may be infected with the flu, including 2009 H1N1, and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Click here to download the Take 3 Brochure
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