An ounce of prevention
The best way to deal with flu season is to do everything we can to prevent its spread. Here at Ruby, we’re taking all the precautions we can to stay healthy! First, get your seasonal flu shot, and ask your doctor if you should get the H1N1 vaccine as well. The Washington Post reports that getting your seasonal flu shot this year may help protect you from the H1N1 virus. It’s certainly not as good as getting the separate H1N1 vaccination, but it’s a little added bonus.
Is your employer offering a flu shot clinic? If not, call your local pharmacy for information on setting up a flu shot clinic and suggest the idea to your employer. Or, find a flu shot clinic in your area.
Who shouldn’t get a flu shot?
– People who have had a bad reaction to the vaccine in the past
– People with egg allergies
– Children under 6 months old
– People who have a cold or the flu (wait until you’re better)
Things you can do every day
You’ve probably been hearing it non-stop, but be sure to wash your hands (and carry hand lotion for dry skin) and use a tissue or your sleeve–not your hands–when coughing and sneezing. You may also consider keeping hand sanitizer on hand (get it?)and wiping down common surfaces with disinfecting wipes.
If you or your family gets sick
Stay home! Better to miss a couple days of work than risk spreading the flu to your co-workers. If you work and you have children, plan ahead either to stay home or arrange for child care.
Get educated
Go to www.cdc.gov or www.flu.gov for more information on the flu, the 2009 H1N1 virus, and vaccinations. If you have questions, ask your doctor.
