Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Protecting Against the Flu this Time of Year
With the cold weather gripping Massachusetts this time of year, the
state is experiencing a heightened level of flu diagnoses. If possible, the
Department of Public Health urges everyone six months of age and older to
receive a flu shot since the flu season lasts well after the month of March.
A flu shot is the most effective way to protect yourself from the flu.
While it might not prevent everyone from catching the illness, the shot will
most likely lessen the severity of the symptoms caused by the virus. Other ways
to protect oneself of the flu include:
* Washing hands with soap and water;
* Utilizing hand sanitizer when in public;
* Coughing or sneezing into the corner of your
elbow to prevent spreading germs to others; and
* Staying home from work or school if symptoms
begin to appear.
For further guidelines provided by the Department of Public Health
(DPH), please click here. Additionally, click here to read the latest flu
reports issued by DPH.
