The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Symptoms can include high fever, headache, muscle aches, lethargy, dry cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (more common in children).

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC, 2008), on average, 5% to 20% of the population will get the flu, more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications (including 20,000 children), and approximately 36,000 people die from influenza complications each year in the United States.

Here's a list of recommendations that you and your loved ones can do to lessen the risk of contracting a flu virus:

1. Get vaccinated. This is the single best way to reduce your risk of getting the flu. See your health care provider to discuss vaccination.

2. Avoid close contact with those who are sick. Flu viruses spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, which are ways a virus can enter the body.

3. Stay home when you’re sick. Avoid sharing germs by staying home from work, school or other public places when you feel as though you’re coming down with, or have, the flu.
4. Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. By using the bend in your arm or a tissue to contain your cough or sneeze and then washing your hands promptly afterwards, you may prevent others from getting sick.
5. Wash your hands often! This age old piece of advice is still mothers best. Washing hands will not only prevent you from acquiring unwanted germs but will keep you from sharing them as well.
6. Take good care of yourself! Get plenty of rest, make healthy food choices, stay well hydrated, avoid stress as much as possible, and make sure you get regular exercise.  Having a healthy regimen will go a long way to keeping your body in optimal health this flu season.