Flu season is upon us and at the time of this writing, activity is widespread in parts of the Southeastern US. [You did get a flu shot didn't you?] Well here some tips you can take to protect yourself from getting ill, and protect others if you get ill.

• Wash hands frequently with soap and warm water (wash for no less than 30 seconds to kill germs).
• Stay home when sick.
• Keep a distance between yourself and others (a sneeze can spray up to three feet!).
• Keep alcohol-based hand sanitizers handy (they kill more germs than hand washing).
• Keep fingers and hands away from mouth, eyes and nose (most illnesses come from touching contaminated items).
• Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Even better than a tissue – Do It In Your Sleeve!
• Reduce stress. Stress can make your body less able to fight infections.
• Listen to your body and get enough rest.
• Eat a balanced diet that includes at least five servings of fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise at least 30 minutes every day to boost your immune system.
• Teach children to not share food and drink with friends.

Remember: Follow these prevention measures and the common cold will no longer be common. 80% of healthy people don’t get influenza.

Didn’t get a flu shot? Well… if you do get the flu, antiviral drugs must be started 48 hours from the time symptoms first appear, so you’ll need to see your health care provider as soon as possible.