Public Health releases measures to avoid flu, colds

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Donna Evans
  • 95th Aerospace Medicine Squadron
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  The base Public Health is urging Team Edwards to practice basic measures to help prevent the spread of influenza and reduce the risk of common colds. 

The following are the preventative measures against flu and common colds:

-- Hand washing. Wash hands with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers.
 
-- Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

-- Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When sick, keep distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

-- Cover mouth and nose. Cover mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around from getting sick.

-- Seek medical attention if experiencing signs and symptoms of influenza, such as unusually high fever, sore throat, headache, runny or stuffy nose, extreme tiredness, muscle aches and dry cough.

-- Stay home when sick. If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when sick.

Other good habits, such as getting plenty of sleep, engaging in physical activity, managing stress, drinking water and eating good food will help everyone stay healthy all year round.

Additional information can be found by visiting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site at http://www.cdc.gov.