Recommended Prevention:

·If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.

·Wash hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.

·Avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth, which spreads the virus.

·Avoid close contact with ill people.

·Get plenty of sleep and exercise; manage stress; drink plenty of fluids and eat healthful foods.

·Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Then throw the tissue in the trash.

Flu warning signs provided by the Centers for Disease Control:

In children:

·Bluish skin color;

·Fast or troubled breathing;

·Not drinking enough fluids;;

·Not waking up or interacting;

·Being so irritable the child does not want to be held;

·Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough; and

·Fever with a rash.

In addition, obtain medical help immediately for any infant who shows any of the following signs:

·Being unable to eat;

·Has trouble breathing;

·Has no tears when crying;

·Significantly fewer wet diapers than normal;

In adults:

·Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath;

·Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen;

·Sudden dizziness;

·Confusion;

·Severe or persistent vomiting; and

·Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

Treatment

·Get plenty of rest;

·Drink clear fluids such as water, broth, sports drinks or electrolyte beverages to prevent dehydration;

·Place a cool, damp washcloth on forehead, arms and legs to reduce discomfort associated with a fever;

·Use a humidifier to make breathing easier;

·Gargle with salt water to soothe a sore throat; and

·Cover with a warm blanket to calm chills.