The flu season is in full swing; however, you can protect yourself and others from acquiring the dreaded flu bug. The single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season.
Ephraim McDowell Health said other simple things to protect you from the flu include:
“Some individuals can still get the flu after receiving the flu vaccine, but it drastically decreases the chance and severity of symptoms if acquired,” said Ginger East, infection prevention nurse at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center.
Ephraim McDowell Health said other simple things to protect you from the flu include:
- Washing your hands frequently. Use soap and warm water and rub your hands under running water for at least 15 seconds. Use an alcohol-based gel if soap and water are not available.
- Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue and throw it away afterwards. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve.
- Avoiding crowded places and semi-closed environments. When you are in a crowded environment, it’s easier to pick up germs that may cause illness.
- Taking care of yourself. Get plenty of sleep, eat properly and exercise. This keeps you healthy and makes you less susceptible to viruses that can cause the flu.
“Some individuals can still get the flu after receiving the flu vaccine, but it drastically decreases the chance and severity of symptoms if acquired,” said Ginger East, infection prevention nurse at Ephraim McDowell Regional Medical Center.
