CLEANLINESS is next to Flu-less-ness Published Feb. 6, 2015 ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- The flu has hit Team Robins as well as the surrounding community particularly hard this year. Following are some educational tips from base public health officials to help protect you and your loves. WASH YOUR HANDS The most effective way to prevent the spread of flu is with hand washing and by staying home if you are sick. GET IMMUNIZED Many people may be discouraged to get the vaccine this year due to media coverage stating that this year's vaccine is ineffective; however, there are still many protective measures associated with immunizations. Per the CDC: - Flu vaccination can keep you from getting sick from flu. Protecting yourself from flu also protects people around you who are more vulnerable to flu illness. - Flu vaccination also may make your illness milder if you do get sick. - Flu vaccination can reduce the risk of more serious flu outcomes, like hospitalizations and deaths. CLEAN YOUR AREA Flu virus can live on surfaces up to 24 hours. Recommend common areas be cleaned often, to include phones and countertops. Surfaces should be cleaned with an EPA-registered disinfectant that states the product is approved for effectiveness against influenza A virus. Another option is to mix 1 tablespoon of bleach with 1 quart of water. It's also recommended to use fist pumps instead of handshakes and liberal use of hand sanitizer to reduce the risk of common contact infections. INCUBATION The typical incubation period for influenza is one to four days. Adults shed influenza virus from the day before symptoms begin through five to seven days after illness onset. This means that individuals with flu-like symptoms are contagious up to one to two days prior to symptoms and up to seven days after symptoms resolve. SYMPTOMS The following symptoms usually do not require medical appointment, and over-the counter medications can assist to relieve the symptoms: - fever - cough - sore throat - runny or stuffy nose - body aches - headache - chills - fatigue Editor's note: For more information, visit www.cdc.gov or call Public Health at 497-7623.