Influenza is a contagious disease. The virus is spread in the air (by sneezing and coughing) and by contact (hands, eyes and face).

In order to avoid contagion by someone who has the flu, you should:

• Wash your hands frequently.

• Allow air to circulate through rooms and maintain adequate temperature and humidity.

• Avoid direct contact with people who already have the flu.

To avoid influenza you should get a flu vaccine. As the virus mutates often, every year new anti-influenza vaccines are developed. The vaccine is effective in almost 90% of cases and it is especially useful in people at high risk such as:

• The elderly and children.

• People who suffer from a chronic condition.

• People who work in places where virus transmission is almost inevitable (offices, hospitals, schools, etc.)

Flu vaccine contains small quantities of influenza virus. Once injected into the body it stimulates the production of specific antibodies and immunizes against their action. Try to get a flu vaccine a few weeks before the anticipated onset of the virus. Generally, the vaccine becomes effective two weeks after you get vaccinated.