Habits to Avoid the Flu

Healthy Habits to Avoid the Flu 

1. Keep your immune systems strong. Get enough sleep, Eat healthy foods (more fruits/veggies!), Stay hydrated, Get regular exercise and Manage your stress.

2. Consider the flu vaccine. Speak with your health provider about whether the vaccine is right for you. 

3. Wash your hands often. Hand washing is an important defense against ALL germs including flu viruses. Wash your hands after using the bathroom; after coughing or sneezing; before putting in or removing contact lenses; before using makeup; before eating, serving, or preparing food; and when you come home from school, the mall, a movie, or anywhere else where you’ve been exposed to a lot of people. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is another option, when soap and water is not readily available. 

4. Keep your distance if someone is sick (coughing, sneezing, etc.). Flu viruses travel through the air, so try to stay away from people who are sick. Also, avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth — three places germs can easily enter the body. 

5. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow — NOT into your hands. This habit reduces the spread of viruses when you touch surfaces that other people may touch, too. 

6. STAY HOME IF YOU HAVE FLU SYMPTOMS. This decreases the chances of passing your germs to others - plus rest helps the body recover faster. Don't let the flu mess with you! Fight back! 

CDC Tips to Avoid the Flu: