HEALTH PROTECTION TIPS

What can I do to protect myself and my family?

Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
* Get a H1N1 influenza vaccine. The H1N1 influenza vaccine is not available yet, but it may be available in mid-October. In King County H1N1 vaccine will be distributed using Public Health clinics, private providers and pharmacies. Individuals and families can get their H1N1 influenza vaccine at the same place they get the seasonal flu vaccine.
* Get your seasonal flu vaccine. The H1N1 influenza vaccine does not replace seasonal flu vaccine. It is important that people in high risk groups for seasonal flu get their seasonal influenza shot so that they are protected. Older individuals are at higher risk for seasonal flu and Public Health recommends they get the flu vaccine every years.
* If you don't have one yet, consider developing a family emergency plan as a precaution. This should include storing a supply of extra food, medicines, and other essential supplies. This is to avoid contact with other people as much as possible, including trips to the store. Prepare to get by for at least two weeks on what you have at home.