Cold weather is here and with the first frost of the season comes the coughing, sniffling, and sneezing that heralds in flu season. During this time of year it’s important to remember how to avoid contracting the flu and what to do if you get sick.

Employ these preventative steps to have a flu-free winter:

• Get the vaccine. Find a flu clinic near you and get yours today.
  • While it is recommended that everyone get a flu shot, it is most important for children 6 months to 4 years old and people age 50 and older.
    • Parents – The flu is dangerous for young children, getting your child vaccinated is the best way to prevent the flu.
  • Flu vaccines are safe for everyone, even women who are pregnant.
  • MassHealth works to pay for the administration of flu shots every year, so find out if you qualify.
• Take precautions to stop germs from spreading.
  • Frequently wash your hands with soap and hot water or an alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water is not available.
  • Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
  • Don’t touch your mouth, nose, or eyes often.
  • Disinfect surfaces in your home to stop germs, especially if a family member is already sick.
  • Bundle up in warm clothes before leaving your home.
    • Getting a chill can make you more susceptible to germs.

Even after taking all these steps it’s still possible to contract the flu virus. If you get the flu, know how to recover quickly and avoid spreading it to others. Symptoms of the flu include fever, vomiting, cough, sore throat, body aches, and more. Fight the virus with these tips:

• Talk to your doctor to get a prescription for antiviral drugs.
  • Take antibiotics if you are at a higher risk of serious complications from the flu.
    • People that have a higher risk include people with asthma, diabetes, and chronic heart disease.
• Make sure to stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone.
  • Exception: when seeking medical care or medicine.
• If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, or severe vomiting, visit the emergency room immediately because these could be life-threatening.

Now that you know how to protect yourself from the flu, have a happy, healthy flu season!

Tweet @massgov how you stay healthy during flu season.

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