Flu Season is Here: Protect Yourself!

Flu season is in full swing in Michiana. Take the following actions to protect yourself from the flu:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based foam.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Healthcare providers:  Wear gloves for any contact with potentially infectious material. Remove gloves after contact, followed by hand hygiene. Wear a face mask when caring for patients with flu-like symptoms.
  

What are the symptoms of the flu versus the symptoms of a cold?

In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.

If you develop a fever and respiratory symptoms, do not report to work!  You MUST stay home at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (without the use of fever-reducing medicines such as acetaminophen).

Annual vaccination is the most important measure to prevent seasonal influenza infection.SJRMC Associates:  If you did not receive a flu shot, Employee Health has a limited number still available.