Seasonal flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that spread easily from person to person, especially during the fall and winter months. Preventing the flu helps protect yourself and those around you.

Effective Ways to Prevent Seasonal Flu

• Get vaccinated every year:
  The flu vaccine is the most effective way to protect against seasonal flu. It is updated annually to cover the most common circulating strains. Everyone aged 6 months and older should get the vaccine, especially high-risk groups such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic medical conditions.
• Practice good hand hygiene:
  Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Avoid close contact with sick people:
  Keep your distance from anyone showing symptoms of the flu to reduce the chance of catching the virus.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing:
  Use a tissue or the inside of your elbow to cover your mouth and nose. Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash your hands.
• Avoid touching your face:
  Flu viruses can enter the body through your eyes, nose, and mouth. Try to avoid touching your face, especially with unwashed hands.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces:
  Regularly clean items like doorknobs, light switches, phones, keyboards, and countertops to remove germs.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle:
  Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and manage stress to support your immune system.
• Stay home when you are sick:
  To prevent spreading the flu, avoid going to work, school, or public places until you have recovered.

Additional Tips

• Use masks in crowded or high-risk settings:
  Wearing a mask can help reduce flu transmission in places where social distancing is difficult.
• Keep your environment well-ventilated:
  Open windows or use air purifiers to improve airflow and reduce airborne viruses.