Is there a vaccine available to protect against getting sick?
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against novel H1N1 virus - (September 2, 2009). However, a novel H1N1 vaccine is currently in production and may be ready for the public in the fall. A vaccine is available to protect against seasonal influenza.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.
Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners* are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
Other important actions that you can take are:
Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs,* tissues and other related items could be useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious We ask patient vistors with cold or flu symptoms to defer their visit until after symptoms have resolved.
What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?
Washing your hands often with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds will help protect you from germs.
What if soap and water are not available and alcohol-based products are not allowed in my facility?
Though the scientific evidence is not as extensive as that on hand washing and alcohol-based sanitizers, other hand sanitizers that do not contain alcohol may be useful for killing flu germs on hands.
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What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?