Flu Prevention

Don’t let the flu get you!

Three Easy Steps to Avoiding the Flu:

1. Get your flu shot!
   • Getting a flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu.
   • Flu shots are most important for people at high risk and their close contacts. These people include:
     • Children
     • Pregnant women
     • People with chronic health conditions such as heart disease, asthma, etc.
     • People age 50 and older
   • Complications of the flu include pneumonia. The following people should get the pneumonia vaccine: adults 65 and older, people who have a chronic illness, have a weakened immune system or live in a nursing home. This vaccine protects against a bacteria which causes pneumonia as well as meningitis and bloodstream infections. This can be given at the same time as the flu shot if needed.
2. Keep your hands clean!
   • Wash your hands with soap and water.
   • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
   • Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth. This is how germs can spread.
3. Be a hero!
   • If you get the flu, try and stay away from others.
   • If you care for others who are at high risk, such as young children or older parents, get a flu shot.
   • Take antiviral drugs to treat the flu.

Will you be pregnant this flu season?

Doctors recommend that you get a flu shot. Your risk of illness is 4 to 5 higher when pregnant. Stay healthy during your pregnancy. Get vaccinated.

Studies show that the flu shot is safe for pregnant women.