Influenza is a serious health threat; it is very contagious. Symptoms start one to four days after virus enters the body with an average of two days after exposure.  Some people can be infected with flu virus but have no symptoms.  During this time, they can still spread virus to others.  Adults can spread the virus from one day before developing symptoms to up to seven days after getting sick.  Young children can spread virus for longer than seven days.

Flu can be spread by breathing droplets in the air that come from someone sneezing, coughing or talking. You also can get flu by direct contact with someone who has it. Or you can get it by touching an object where the virus is, such as a doorknob,  a handrail or a telephone and  then by simply touching your mouth, nose or eyes.

It is especially easy for virus to spread where there are crowds or where people live, work or study close together.  Health officials advise people to wash their hands often and to avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth.

Flu is contagious, but steps can be taken to prevent getting it. Health officials advise people to:

• Get into the habit of washing your hands before meals and after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 10 to 15 seconds. Rinse and dry your hands with a clean, dry towel.
• Wash your hands often, especially after being in contact with someone who is sick, or with children who get viruses easily and are the main spreaders of viruses.
• Wash your hands after wiping a child’s nose.
• Use alcohol-based sanitizers for washing hands, especially if you do not have easy access to soap and water. Follow package directions.
• Avoid shaking hands.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes or touching your nose or mouth. These habits can bring viruses into your body.
• Do not share dishes or drinks
• Do not visit anyone who has the flu unless it is absolutely necessary.
• Stay home from work of school if you are sick.
• If a member of your family has flu, keep things such as towels separate from the rest of the family.
• Avoid large public gatherings.
• Take good care of yourself physically and emotionally.
• Avoid smoking.
• Drink plenty of water to help keep your throat moist and to cleanse your body of waste.
• Consider wearing a face mask to prevent spread of disease. A mask will prevent the spread of most germs in the air from sneezing and coughing. A mask also reminds people not to touch their nose or mouth. People who are sick or exposed and people taking care of people who are sick should wear masks. Throw them away daily.