Sepsis And...

Sepsis and Influenza

Can the Flu Be Prevented?

Yes, influenza can be prevented with a few simple precautions and, in many cases, with a vaccination.

Precautions:

Hand washing is the number one weapon against influenza. Washing your hands after touching your face if you have the flu or after touching potentially contaminated objects (such as door handles, public phones) has been proven to effectively reduce the chances of passing on or developing the flu.
Sneezing or coughing into your elbow is a good way to reduce transmission of the flu virus. Unlike sneezing or coughing into your hand, your elbow won’t touch common objects that will be touched by others.
If you have the flu, avoid others while you have symptoms and for 24 hours after the symptoms have gone.
Consider getting vaccinated. Every year, a new vaccine is developed based on the information about the new influenza strain that is circling the globe. Getting a vaccination is your best protection, although it may not be 100%

Not convinced that the flu vaccine is right for you? This 22-year-old university football player may help you make up your mind: