The CDC reported 37 pediatric related deaths associated with the flu this year. The Flu affects both children and adults. However, the populations most at risk for contracting the flu include but are not limited to: adults 65 years of age and older, children younger than 2 years old, pregnant women, and residents of nursing homes. The number of deaths resulting from complications of the flu are alarming and the virus shows no sign of slowing down. The number of deaths associated with the flu this year has motivated me to educate myself about influenza and the preventative measures to take, to decrease my chances of contracting the flu and spreading it to others.

What can you do?

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
• 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.

If you become ill and are experiencing flu like symptoms, contact your health care provider immediately.

Flu information courtesy of the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov)

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