The arrival of the Influenza (flu) season is upon us and the Center for DiseaseControl and Prevention recommends you receive the flu shot prior to October. Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have respiratory symptoms without a fever. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends these approaches to fighting the flu: 

1. Get a flu vaccination each year.

• While there are many different flu viruses, the flu vaccine protects against the viruses that research suggests will be most common.
• Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine as soon as this season’s vaccines are available.
• We are now offering the flu shots!!

2. Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you or your child gets sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you (or your child) stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. The fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible 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. 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. That includes doorknobs, keyboards and phones.
• If you begin to feel sick while at work, go home as soon as possible.

 3. There are also things you can do to protect your child from germs that can cause respiratory illness, like the flu.

• Find out about plans your child’s school, child care program, or college has if an outbreak of flu or another illness occurs and whether flu vaccinations are offered on-site.
• Make sure your child’s school, child care program, or college routinely cleans frequently touched objects and surfaces, and that they have a good supply of tissues, soap, paper towels, alcohol-based hand rubs, and disposable wipes on-site.
• Ask how sick students and staff are separated from others and who will care for them until they can go home.

By taking these everyday preventive steps, you can help slow the spread of germs that can cause many different illnesses, including the flu. We are now offering the flu shot, please call 702-240-4233 option 3 or visit: tottoriallergy.com.