Flu Season

 

Flu season is just around the corner.. 

The American Red Cross is encouraging everyone to get a flu shot in order to be protected throughout the season.

Here are some simple steps people can take to help prevent the spread of the flu:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing, and throw the tissue away after use. If a tissue isn’t available, cough or sneeze into your elbow, not your hands.
• Wash hands often, especially after coughing or sneezing. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol based hand-rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home if you’re sick. 

If you think you have the flu, your health-care provider should be consulted. Seek medical care immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms:

• Fast breathing, trouble breathing or bluish skin color.
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen (adults).
• Confusion or sudden dizziness.
• Not drinking enough fluids, not being able to eat, or severe or persistent vomiting.
• Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.
• Not waking up, being so irritable that the child does not want to be held or not interacting (children).
• Fever with a rash (children).
• No tears when crying or significantly fewer wet diapers than normal (children).

Be Red Cross Ready- Flu Checklist