Three Easy Steps to Avoiding the Flu:

Get stuck! Get your flu shot!

• Getting a flu shot is the best way to prevent the flu.
• Flu shots are most important for people at high risk and their close contacts. These people include
  • Children
  • Pregnant women
  • People with chronic health conditions such as heart disease, asthma, etc.
  • People age 50 and older
• Complications of the flu include pneumonia. Adults 65 and older should get a pneumonia vaccine. People who have a chronic illness; a weakened immune system; or live in a nursing home should also get a pneumonia shot. This vaccine protects against a bacteria which causes pneumonia as well as meningitis and bloodstream infections. This can be given at the same time as the flu shot if needed.

Keep your hands clean!

• Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose or month. This is how germs can spread.

Be a hero!

• If you get the flu, try and stay away from others.
• If you care for others who are at high risk, such as young children or older parents, get a flu shot.
• Take antiviral drugs if your doctor says to. These can help treat the flu and sometimes can prevent it.