1. Get the flu shot – it’s your best defence against the flu and will help protect others, including the most vulnerable, from the serious complications of influenza
2. Wash your hands often – washing with soap and water for at least 15 seconds helps keep the virus from spreading – or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
3. Cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and then throw it out – if you don’t have a tissue, cough into your upper sleeve
4. Don’t touch your face – the flu virus enters your body through your eyes, nose and mouth
5. Stay at home when you’re sick – viruses spread more easily in group settings
6. Clean and disinfect surfaces and shared items – viruses can live for up to 48 hours on hard surfaces
7. Plan ahead – make sure you or your loved ones have what you need over the holidays no matter where you intend to spend your holidays
8. Use the ER wisely – it’s a precious commodity and this is the busiest time of year
9. If your symptoms become a concern, call your family doctor, nurse practitioner or the on-call service or visit a walk-in clinic
10. Remember, your pharmacy can also provide a variety of helpful services over the holidays and can even provide emergency supplies of medicine, in a pinch