To reduce the risk of getting H1NI or of infecting others, follow these simple rules:
- Wash your hands often, especially after visiting a place where people may have H1NI;
- If you are coughing or sneezing, wear a mask if you visit a hospital ER;
- Practice “cough etiquette” to protect others. Cough or sneeze into a Kleenex or the crook of your elbow;
- If you have flu symptoms, stay at home.
Handwashing
Washing your hands with soap and water, or using an alcohol gel, is an easy way to reduce the chance of becoming infected with H1N1. By washing your hands you also reduce the risk of infecting other people. Be sure to wash your hands when entering and leaving a hospital or medical clinic, and after visiting busy public places.
Wear a mask if coughing or sneezing
If you are coughing or sneezing, wear a surgical mask when visiting a hospital, doctor’s office or CLSC. During the flu season, masks are usually available at the doors of health-care facilities.
Practice “cough etiquette”
Make sure to cough or sneeze into a Kleenex or handkerchief. Or, sneeze or cough into the crook of your elbow. This simple practice reduces the risk of exposing people around you to viruses or germs.
Stay at home if you have symptoms
If you have a fever and cough or other flu symptoms, stay at home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible. Rest will help you recover and avoid more serious illness. Also, by staying at home, you are much less likely to infect other people.