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Flu prevention tips

Protect yourself against seasonal flu, H1NI ("swine flu"), or any cough illness

Influenza, known as flu, is a very contagious disease of the respiratory (breathing) system. The flu is caused by a virus that is easily passed from one person to another by coughing and sneezing. For most people, the flu makes them feel very sick, but they generally get better in about a week. However, young children, people older than 65 years of age, pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions can have serious complications from the flu. These complications can include pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or asthma.

Here are some tips to stay healthy:

• Get a flu shot every year. The CDC recommends that college students protect themselves by getting vaccinated against the regular seasonal and the H1N1 flu. We encourage you to get both vaccinations as soon as possible. Seasonal flu vaccinations are available now; H1N1 vaccinations will be on hand later this fall. Wheaton will conduct both seasonal and H1N1 vaccination clinics. Stay tuned for more information. Getting flu vaccine also means that you will not pass the flu to others.
• Wash your hands. Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Throw tissues away and wash your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. This decreases the chance that you will get the flu virus or other germs into your body, or that you will pass the flu to others.
• Clean things that are touched often. Clean things that are touched often at home, work or school, such as door or refrigerator handles, computer key boards/mouse, phones and water faucets.
• Avoid close contact with others who are sick. Avoid unnecessary holding, hugging or kissing anyone who has a cold or the flu. People with young children, immune system problems or a chronic illness should avoid large crowds, unless necessary.

For more information about influenza visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, or call the MDPH Immunization Program at 617-983-6800 or 888-658-2850.

Source: Massachusetts Department of Public Health