H1N1 influenza prevention
Steps you can take
- If you have flu-like symptoms, stay at home and avoid contact with other people for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people. The flu is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. If you share a room or household with a sick person, try to limit contact and maintain a distance of 6 feet.
- If close contact cannot be avoided, the sick person should wear a surgical mask, if tolerable, when he or she is around other people.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Discard the tissue after using.
- Wash your hands regularly – for at least 20 seconds — with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Clean and disinfect your work or study area regularly with disinfectant wipes.
- Try to maintain healthy habits, including getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of fluids, eating a balanced diet and not smoking.
- Be sure to get vaccinated for the seasonal flu.
- Get vaccinated for the H1N1 flu when the virus becomes available.
- Consult your health care provider if you have chronic health conditions or if symptoms continue.