Get Vaccinated!

Make sure the people in your family who are listed in the groups below are vaccinated. Vaccination is the best protection against contracting the flu. You need two vaccines—seasonal and 2009 novel H1N1—to be fully protected this year. The seasonal flu vaccine is different from the 2009 novel H1N1 flu vaccine. Children under age 10 must receive two doses of the 2009 novel H1N1 vaccine to be fully protected. The CDC is encouraging people to get all vaccinations as soon as possible. More information on Vaccination.

Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

•  Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

•  Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

•  Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.

•  Try to avoid close contact with sick people. If you must have close contact with a sick person (for example, holding a sick infant), try to wear a face mask.

•  Stay home if you are sick until at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever(100°F or 37.8°C) or signs of a fever (without the use of a fever-reducing medicine, such as Tylenol®).

•  Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds, and other social distancing measures.