Stay Healthy

The best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get a flu shot. But there are also other important things you can do to stay healthy during flu outbreaks.
For many people, fall means the start of football season. Those shorter, cooler days also mark the start of flu season. So make fall a time to beef up your efforts to prevent the flu and other respiratory infections.
1. Wash your hands often. Hand washing is a simple but powerful way to prevent many types of infections, including the flu. Use soap (any type will do) and warm water. Scrub for 15 to 20 seconds. Rinse well, and dry with a clean towel or paper towel. If you don't have access to soap and water, use an alcohol-based hand wipe or gel sanitizer.
2. Keep your hands away from your face. Flu germs can live for hours on surfaces such as doorknobs and desks. They can enter your body if you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
3. Steer clear of sick people. Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick. If possible, stay out of crowds when flu outbreaks are highest in your area.
4. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue and then throw it away. If you don't have a tissue, use your hand. Then wash your hands to get rid of the germs.
5. Build your defenses. Keep your immune system strong by eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep and getting regular exercise. Always talk to your doctor before you increase your activity level.
If you get the flu
Sometimes even the best prevention fails. If you do get the flu, stay home until you're well. This can help keep the flu from spreading.
Antiviral medicine can often shorten the severity and duration of the flu. But it works best if you start taking it within the first two days after flu symptoms start. Symptoms of flu can include fever, headache, tiredness, sore throat, dry cough, nasal congestion and body aches.