Preventing the Flu (influenza)
The best way to prevent getting the flu is to get vaccinated.

Along with your vaccination, the following tips will help keep you healthy this flu season:

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Washing your hands often will help protect you from flu germs.
• Control your stress level. Prolonged stress levels can affect your immune system. To manage your stress, find balance between work, exercise, and personal time.
• Get lots of rest. Make sure you are rested. Sleep deprivation may slow your ability to stay alert and make you vulnerable to the flu and other viruses.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Use a tissue to help prevent passing the germs to those around you.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. You can infect yourself by unknowingly touching something with flu germs and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Avoid direct contact with people who are sick. You'll also want to keep your distance from others if you are sick.

For vaccination of children under age 12, consult with your nearest U.S. HealthWorks medical center to determine appropriate vaccination locations. Please note: We are not a participant of and cannot accept Medicare patients. Federal Law prohibits Medicare recipients from paying by cash, check or credit card for Medicare-covered services.

NOTE: The H1N1 vaccination is now available at some U.S. HealthWorks locations. Please contact your local center for availability. The CDC has directed all healthcare providers to vaccinate the most at-risk populations first. “Most at-risk” groups refer to those at the greatest risk of serious illness: pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, persons between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old, and people ages of 25 through 64 years of age who are at higher risk for 2009 H1N1 because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.