Preventing flu and other illnesses

Good Health Habits for Prevention

Flu & other illnesses may be prevented by following these simple guidelines:

• Avoid close contact

  Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

• Stay home when you are sick.

  If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.

• Cover your mouth and nose

  Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

• Clean your hands.

  Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

  Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

• Practice other good health habits.

  Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.