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Flu Prevention

Dated : 15th January 2015

The flu is a communicable disease. Everyone knows what it is and they are afraid to catch it yet many people do not take steps to prevent it. The most effective way to prevent yourself from catching the flu, like most 5-20% of U.S. residents do, you must get the flu shot vaccine. You can conveniently get it at most pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens if you are unable to go to your regular doctor. According to the CDC or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the flu vaccine protects you from three or four common viruses. However, there are other steps you can take to prevent catching this contagious respiratory illness.

Wash your hands and cover your mouth while you cough! It helps to prevent spreading of germs, especially if you are going to populated places during the day like the grocery store or work. Also, try to avoid being too close to those who are sick. If you have children who are sick, clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in order to prevent yourself or others from catching it. Of course, drinking plenty of fluids and eating healthy helps your body prevent catching the flu. If you do happen to catch it, you can also take antiviral drugs prescribed by your doctor to lessen the effects and shorten the time of being sick. The flu is easy to catch, but also easy to prevent if you follow some of these tips!

Works Cited

1. "CDC Says "Take 3" Actions To Fight The Flu." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 09 Sept. 2014.

2. "Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 28 Aug. 2014.

3. N.d. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Web. 3 Feb. 2015. http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm.