Flu and influenza-like-illness is widespread in New Jersey. People infected with the flu may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to 5-7 days after becoming sick.
Adhering to the following guidelines will lessen the chance of transmission of the flu.
1. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. This will block the spread of droplets from your nose or mouth that may contain germs. Dispose of the tissue in a trash can and wash your hands.
2. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
3. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
4. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are spread this way.
5. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
6. If you become sick with a respiratory illness, like flu, limit contact with others as much as possible to help prevent spreading illness. Stay home for at least 24 hours after fever is gone. Fever should be gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.
These guidelines are effective at school, home, work and public areas.
Cold and Flu Season
