Stay Healthy During Flu Season

The H1N1 flu virus has been on many people's minds, especially since it has spread to all 50 states. That may sound scary, but keep in mind that most people in the U.S. who have gotten the virus have recovered fully without medical treatment.

With all the attention that H1N1 is getting, it's easy to forget that seasonal flu is also a threat. Outbreaks generally peak during the winter months. In the U.S., more than 200,000 people are hospitalized and 36,000 die every year because of flu-related complications.

So how can you protect yourself and your family from the H1N1 flu virus as well as seasonal flu?

Keep Germs Away

Seasonal flu and H1N1 appear to spread in the same way: from person to person through coughing or sneezing.

Therefore, follow these precautions to avoid both:

• Cough or sneeze into a tissue and then throw the tissue away.
• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners work, too.
• To prevent the spread of germs, do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Avoid sick people as much as possible.

Both types of flu appear harder on people with a medical condition, such as diabetes or heart disease. Seasonal flu often strikes more people 65 and older. H1N1, in contrast, seems to hit harder among people younger than 25.

Your Best Shot Against Flu

Vaccines are the best way to prevent the flu. This year, you may need two vaccines:

• The seasonal flu vaccine is in short supply due to a manufacturing issue. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises people to get it as soon as they can.
• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved several 2009 H1N1 vaccines, and they are currently offered to people in high-risk categories. Those categories include pregnant women, caregivers of children younger than 6 months and people ages 6 months to 24 years. Ask your doctor if the 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine is available and if you should receive the vaccine.