Health Unit Says Here’s How To Avoid Getting The Flu

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Windsor and Essex County Medical Officer of Health Dr. G. Allen Heimann is reminding area residents that they should follow the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care’s tips to avoid getting the flu.

He offers these seven tips will to protect yourself, your family, and your community.

Get the Flu Shot
Community walk-in clinics, pharmacists, and health care providers do have the vaccine; however supplies of the vaccine vary at each location. Area residents are encouraged to call before going to get their flu shot. Pharmacists can only administer the flu shot to Ontarians five years of age and older. If you have children from six months to less than five years old, visit your doctor or health care provider.

Wash Your Hands with Soap and Water Thoroughly and Often
Even if you get the flu shot, proper hand cleaning is an important way to guard against and limit the spread of the flu. Viruses can live on your hands for up to five minutes and they can live on hard surfaces that you touch with your hands for up to two days. Wash hands for at least 15 seconds or more.

Keep Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer at Work, Home, and in Your Car
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers that are at least 60% alcohol are recommended.

Cover your Mouth and Nose with a Tissue when You Cough and Throw the Tissue Out
Cough into your upper sleeve if you don’t have a tissue.

Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose, and Mouth
The flu virus usually enters the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth.

Avoid Large Crowds of People Where Viruses Can Spread Easily
Stay home when you are sick.

Keep Common Surfaces and Items Clean and Disinfected
For more information on avoiding and dealing with the flu and to find a flu shot