The Flu and You: Beat the Infection

This article was submitted by the Swampscott Health Department

Influenza or "flu" is an infection of the respiratory tract that can affect millions of people every year. It is highly contagious and occurs mainly in the late fall, winter, or early spring.

Influenza is spread from person-to-person through mists or sprays of infectious respiratory secretions caused by coughing and sneezing. It is very important to cover your nose and mouth while sneezing or coughing. Then, you must promptly wash your hands, and do so every time that you cough or sneeze.

Perhaps the simplest and most effective way to avoid influenza is to wash your hands often with soap and warm water.  You should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds.  (Tip: have your children sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice while washing their hands).  When the soap is combined with this scrubbing action, it helps to dislodge and remove germs. 

When soap and water are not available, you may use alcohol-based gel sanitizer or hand wipes.  If you are using a gel, rub the gel into your hands until they are dry.  The gel doesn’t need water to work; the alcohol in the gel kills germs that may cause the flu.  It is important to note that hand wipes and gel sanitizer do not remove dirt that may be on your skin. 

Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.  Germs are often spread when people touch something that is contaminated with germs and then touch their eyes, nose or mouth.  Some germs can live up to two hours on surfaces such as doorknobs, tables and shopping carriages. 

Swampscott Free Flu Clinic

Open to all adult residents ages 18 and over – vaccine on a first come, first serve basis.

Date: Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2012     Time: 5 pm – 7 pm

Location:   Council on Aging / Senior Center                                             200R Essex Street, Swampscott, MA   01907

All insurance cards (Medicare and HMO) must be brought the day of the flu clinic. 

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