The dreaded flu season is just around the corner and you may wonder what you can do to avoid the flu.

First of all, the flu (influenza) is a virus that is contagious. This virus acts as a common cold, but develops much quicker. Some of the symptoms include feeling excessively tired, fever, chills, headaches, body aches, coughing, itchy or sore throat, vomiting, and a runny nose. Because the flu is contagious it’s important to know how it is spread. The flu is spread from direct contact with people, contaminated surfaces, and through sneezing and coughing. Here are some tips to avoid the flu:

• Get plenty of rest

• Eat a healthy diet

• Avoid stress

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing instead of using your hands.

• If you do use your hands, make sure to wash them thoroughly before you do anything else

• Wash hands before and after contact with person that has the flu

• Wash all dishes and utensils with hot, soapy water

• Don’t share silverware, cups, wash cloths, towels, or toothbrushes

• Don’t let your mouth touch water fountains

• Disinfect countertops, door handles, and any other surface you come in contact with

• Avoid touching your face and other peoples faces

• Ask your doctor about flu vaccinations

These are a few of the ways you can avoid flu this year, just remember if you start feeling sick, stay at home and help prevent others from contracting this icky virus