About Seasonal Flu

The flu is a respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Seasonal flu spreads from person to person through droplets from coughs and sneezes. Infectious droplets can travel through air and enter another person's mouth or nose or land on nearby objects. Droplets can also spread when a person touches a contaminated object then touches his or her mouth or nose before washing hands.

Preventing the Flu

Here are a few tips to help you stop the flu:

• Get an annual flu shot to prevent illness and protect your health
• Always cover coughs and sneezes with tissue (respiratory etiquette)
• Wash your hands frequently throughout the day
• Clean commonly touched surfaces often
• Avoid contact with people who have flu-like symptoms

What To Do If You Get Sick

• People with flu-like symptoms should contact their doctor and avoid contact with others.
• Stay home for 7 days after the start of illness or until at least 24 hours after symptoms have cleared or whichever is longer.
• Learn what to do if you (or someone you know) gets sick by visiting the Handling Flu-Like Symptoms page

Information for Specific Groups

Schools/Childcare

• Information for Childcare Providers (CDC)
• Preparing for the Flu (Flu.gov)

Healthcare Providers

• ACIP Recommendations (CDC)
• Information for Healthcare Providers (CDC)

Workplace

• Information for Organizations (CDC)
• Workplace Planning (Flu.gov)

Additional Information

For more information, visit CDC: Key Facts About Seasonal Influenza.