Nellis prepares for flu season with health tips Published Sept. 29, 2010 By Nellis Public Health Office NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. -- In preparation for the flu season, the public health flight has released information and several tips to educate team Nellis and Creech on how to stay healthy this flu season. The 2010 flu vaccine protects against three common strains of influenza that is combined into one vaccine: H1N1, H3N2 and Influenza-B. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention recommends children older than 6 months, teenagers and adults be vaccinated against influenza. It is important to discuss the flu vaccine with your doctor if you have any concerns or questions. New this year on the market is a high-dose flu vaccine available for adults 65 years or older, which gives an extra boost of immunity for that age group. This flu vaccine is covered through Tricare and Medicare for all eligible candidates; however, it will not be available at the Mike O' Callaghan Federal Hospital. In addition to receiving the flu vaccine, adapting the following habits will further protect against the flu: COVER YOUR MOUTH AND NOSE -- Since flu viruses are spread by coughing, sneezing and touching the face with hands that have been exposed, cover your mouth and nose with tissue. An alternative is to sneeze or cough into your shirt sleeve or elbow. WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN -- Washing with soap and water is the best way to get the virus off your hands. If you have children, have them wash their hands often and thoroughly. Best Hand Washing Technique: Wash with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds (about as long as it takes to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star"). Alternative: Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel. Rub the gel over hands and fingers until the gel dries. (Do not allow children to lick the gel off their hands). Disposable hand wipes can also be used. AVOID TOUCHING EYES, NOSE OR MOUTH -- Viruses are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth. AVOID CLOSE CONTACT -- The best way to avoid spreading the flu virus is to avoid close contact with those who have the flu by keeping a distance of six feet or more. AVOID CONTACT WITH OTHERS, IF YOU HAVE THE FLU -- If you have the flu, stay at home and minimize contact with others. However, seeking medical care is the exception to this rule. Call your doctor or other health care provider before you go in for care. Also, follow public health guidelines regarding school closures or other restrictions where crowds of people gather. PRACTICE OTHER GOOD HEALTH HABITS -- Get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food. For more information, visit the Centers for Disease Control's influenza website at http://www.cdc.gov/flu or the Department of Defense's Pandemic Influenza Watchboard at http://fhp.osd.mil/aiWatchboard.
