It's that time of year again: flu season. This year is an especially nasty flu season for the Pacific Northwest with most states reporting active and intense flu activity.
You can help prevent the spread of the flu by taking a few simple steps recommended from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These simple every day actions can help stop the spread of germs:
If you can, get a flu shot! While there are many different flu viruses, a flu vaccine protects against the viruses that research suggests will be most common. Even a vaccine with a 10% match rate is better than nothing.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.