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Prevent Illness this Respiratory Season

 

The HNHU would like to remind you of some healthy habits that prevent germs and infectious diseases from spreading.

 

Learn them, practice them, and teach them.

 

Get vaccinated

Tip # 1

Get Vaccinated.

The flu shot is recommended for everyone six months of age and older.

Flu shots are available every respiratory season (Nov to March). It is important to get your flu shot every year. 

  • Flu shots are available at pharmacies and through your healthcare provider.
  • Children six months to two years can get their flu shot from a doctor or nurse practitioner. Children under two years old cannot get a flu shot at a pharmacy.

Learn more about COVID-19 vaccines here

Stay home if sick

Tip # 2

When you are sick, stay home and rest.

This will help stop the spread of illness.

 

wash hands

Tip # 3

One of the most important ways to prevent the spread of germs is to wash your hands. Our hands can carry germs, so it is important to wash them often, even if they don’t look dirty.

 

  • Wet hands and apply soap.
  • Rub hands for at least 20 seconds. Scrub all surfaces.
  • Rinse hands.
  • Dry hands with a clean cloth or paper towel. If in a public place, use a paper towel to turn off the faucet. Then, throw it in the trash.
  • If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol.
cough into your elbow

Tip # 4

Cough or sneeze into your elbow.

Droplets produced when coughing or sneezing can spread germs to people or surfaces around you. Cover your mouth with your elbow when coughing or sneezing. Do not use your hands.

clean and disenfect

Tip # 5

Clean & Disinfect Commonly Used Surfaces.

Germs can live on surfaces. To prevent the spread of illness,  frequently clean the commonly touched surfaces in your home,  such as doorknobs, handles, bathrooms and cooking surfaces.