OTTAWA, Dec. 7, 2016 /CNW/ - No matter how or what you celebrate, December brings the party season in Canada. Open houses, work events, and dining out with friends and loved ones all offer lots of opportunities to meet and greet. But, in addition to providing a way to spread joy, these events can also be opportunities to spread the flu.
You don't want to be sidelined with the flu and miss out on the fun. The key to enjoying the holiday season is good health.
The flu is very contagious and can spread quickly and easily by coughing, sneezing and touching common surfaces.
The flu can cause serious problems that could lead to hospitalization or even death. It can affect everyone, including those who are healthy. Evidence shows that young children are hospitalized by the flu more than any other vaccine-preventable disease. Adults aged 65 and over are at high risk of developing flu-related complications, like pneumonia.
Everyone over the age of six months should get the vaccine to prevent the flu.
In addition to getting the flu vaccine, you should:
- wash your hands frequently and thoroughly;
- cough and sneeze into the bend of your arm, not your hand;
- avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes with your hands;
- eat healthy foods and be active to keep your immune system strong;
- keep shared surfaces and objects clean; and
- stay home if you are sick and get plenty of rest.
Make flu prevention part of a happy and healthy holiday season!
To learn more and to find out where to get the flu vaccine, visit canada.ca/flu.
SOURCE Public Health Agency of Canada
Media Contact: Public Health Agency of Canada, Media Relations, (613) 957-2983
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