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Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs

The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.

  1. Avoid close contact.
    Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, self-isolate as much as possible. Persons who wish to seek medical care should contact their health care provider or Wardenburg Health Center to report illness by telephone or other remote means before seeking care.
  2. Stay home when you are sick.
    Stay home from work or school and delay errands for at least 24 hours after fever is gone without the use of fever reducing medicines. Wearing a mask may help to protect others by preventing the spread of the H1N1 virus when you sneeze or cough. Reusable masks are available through CU Housing and can be purchased at most pharmacies and surgical supply houses.
  3. Cover your mouth and nose.
    Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue, the inside of your elbow or with your sleeve when coughing or sneezing. It may help prevent others from getting sick.
  4. Clean your hands.
    Washing your hands often with warm water and soap, and/or using hand sanitizer will help to protect you from germs.
  5. 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.
  6. Practice other good health habits.
    Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food. Do not share cups, utensils, drinks, or lip balms.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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