Flu season got off to an early start in this year in the U.S., with 36 states (including Minnesota) already reporting widespread flu activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), getting a vaccine is still the best way to protect yourself from getting the flu.

Centers for Disease Control
Centers for Disease Control
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In addition to getting a flu shot, the CDC also recommends these steps for avoiding the flu bug:

  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
    While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
  • If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.
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Officials are concerned that it could be a rough flu season in the U.S. based on the flu season that just ended in Australia. Australia had a rough go of it this season, and they tend to be an indicator of what's headed our way.

Stay healthy my friend!

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