Prevent the spread of illness?

All Americans share in the responsibility to plan for this fall’s flu season. Given the unique combination of regular seasonal flu , as well as the H1N1 virus, it’s important for every and take action to reduce the transmission of influenza. American families and businesses should prepare their own household and business plans and think through the steps they will need to take if a family member or a co-worker contracts the flu. We ask all Americans to visit our website at FLU.GOV to find information that will help them take the necessary steps to prepare for flu season and limit the spread of the flu virus. Here are some everyday actions that you and your family can take to stay healthy.

• Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• 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, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Follow the advice of your local public health department regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other measures to reduce flu transmission. These measures will continue to be important after a novel H1N1 vaccine is available because they can prevent the spread of other viruses that cause respiratory infections.