Transmission

The flu is primarily spread from person-to-person through the coughing or sneezing of a person infected with a flu virus. Sometimes people can become infected by touching surfaces infected with an influenza virus and then touching their mouth or nose. It is important to cover your nose or mouth when coughing or sneezing so “respiratory droplets” are not passed. It also is important to maintain good hygiene. Frequently wash your hands to avoid illness and to reduce the risk of bringing germs inside of your body.

Always make sure to wash your hands before you eat and after you go to the restroom.

Proper hand washing (20 seconds):

• Wet your hands with warm running water
• Lather up with bar soap or use a dime size of liquid soap
• Wash for at least 20 seconds focusing on areas where germs build up; nail beds, underneath fingernails and between fingers
• Rinse well
• Dry your hands with a paper towel or air dryer
• Use a paper towel to turn off the faucet and when leaving the restroom

Remember: If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.