Text Size :
Good personal hygiene, leading a healthy lifestyle and being socially responsible can protect you and others against the flu infection.
Read section:
Cover Your Nose and Mouth
With a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose the tissue properly in the covered trash after use.
Wash Your Hands
- Regularly and thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand rub for 20 seconds. Allow it to air dry fully
- Before and after preparing food
- After going to the toilet
- Before and after eating
- After blowing your nose
- After using your hand when coughing or sneezing
Contain the Spread of Flu
- Use a serving spoon when sharing food from a common dish
- Do not share personal items such as toothbrushes and towels
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- If you are sick, avoid crowded areas and wear a mask
- Stay at home and do not go to work or school if unwell
- See your family doctor if you have flu-like symptoms
- Besides practising good personal hygiene, lead a healthy lifestyle to improve your immunity
- Eat a balanced diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Drink the equivalent of 8 glasses of water
- Do 30 minutes of physical activity at least 5 days a week
- Have enough sleep and rest. Keep stress levels low
- Do not smoke
- Get an influenza vaccination every year
- Click here for more information on vaccine-preventable diseases, subsidies available, and frequently asked questions
Protect Others
If you develop influenza-like symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
- See a doctor immediately if you are unwell with a fever (above 37.5 degrees Celsius), cough, sore throat and runny nose. Wear a mask when you are on the way to see the doctor or even at home to prevent spreading to your family members
- Do not 'doctor hop': stick to one doctor only
Contributed By
- Communicable Diseases Agency
Related Content
Influenza A (H1N1) in Children
From its symptoms to the treatment of swine flu in children, learn more about the condition that’s now known as Influenza A (H1N1), a highly contagious virus that typically affects children and youth more than adults.
Does Your Child Need The Influenza Vaccine?
Is getting the influenza vaccine for your child beneficial and important? What is Influenza and the Flu Vaccine all about?
Acute Primary Care: Managing These Conditions
Suffering from some primary health ailment like the flu, gastric discomfort, or what looks like a minor fracture? Visit a National Healthcare Group (NHG) polyclinic in your neighbourhood — rather than heading straight for the A&E.