Ericka Kalp, MPH, CICDirector of Epidemiology & Infection Prevention

Summit Health

SummitHealth.org

In�uenza, also known as the “�u,” is a contagious respiratoryillness. In�uenza can cause mild to severe illness.

Who is at risk of contracting the �u?Everyone is at risk of getting the �u. Children, seniors, and people with chronic health conditions are at a higher risk of developing severe complications caused by the �u.

How does �u spread?The �u is transmitted through the air by coughs or sneezes, creating aerosols containing the virus. Three important things to remember to help prevent the spread of �u are to stay home and rest if you are ill, cover your face when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands.

How can we prevent getting sick?There are several things we can do to help prevent contracting the �u:

• Get your flu shot. The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself.• Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand cleaners.• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth because germs can spread that way.• Avoid close contact with sick people. And, if you get sick with influenza, limit contact with

others. This means staying home from work or school to avoid infecting others.

from the Infection Control Expert

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