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Good personal hygiene, leading a healthy lifestyle and being socially responsible can protect you and others against the flu infection.
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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
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