'Tis the (flu) Season

'Tis the (flu) Season

HMF had to cancel its flu shot clinic because of the vaccine shortage. While there may be vaccine available in January, it’s up to all of us to help prevent the spread of flu now.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Always dispose of used tissues immediately. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or the inside of your elbow—not into your hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner to stop the spread of germs.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, stay home to prevent others from catching your illness.

Above all, don’t panic. HMF doctors plan to prescribe antiviral drugs to shorten the severity and duration of flu symptoms and even to prevent flu in high-risk patients. Doctors have used these drugs in nursing homes for many years and they are effective.

For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control website at www.cdc.gov/flu.