Influenza (flu) is causing mild to severe illness throughout Frederick County and all of Maryland at this time.
The best way to prevent flu is by getting vaccinated each year. Getting vaccinated can reduce your chance of getting sick and spreading illness to others. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends flu vaccines for children 6 months and older.
There are also antiviral drugs that can be used to treat and prevent the flu.
It's not too late to get your flu vaccine!
The best place to get a flu vaccination for you and your children is with your regular health care provider. You can also find flu vaccinations available in the community on https://vaccinefinder.org/. Call to check on vaccine availability and hours.
Exercising the following Good Health Habits can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu.
1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick.
2. Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness. Don't go back to school or work until you (or your kids) are fever free for 24 hours without medicine.
3. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
4. Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
6. Practice other good health habits. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.
More info: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm https://www.cdc.gov/flu/consumer/prevention.htm