The flu season is once again upon us as the first flu case has been confirmed in Clark County. It is more important than ever to take precautions to protect yourself from the flu. According to the Southern Nevada Health District, in an average year, the flu causes 30,000 deaths and 200,000 hospitalizations in the United States.

Basic hygiene rules are one way to protect you from contracting the flu or, if you already have the flu, spreading it others. These include:

• Washing your hands often.
•  Avoiding close contact with those who are sick.
•  Distancing yourself when you are sick.
•  Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you are coughing or sneezing.
• Staying healthy by getting lots of rest and drinking plenty of water.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends getting vaccinated against the flu each year. Some groups are at higher risk than others for contracting the flu and are recommended to get the vaccine. These people include children between six months and 19 years of age, pregnant women, people age 50 and older, people with certain chronic medical conditions and those who live in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. For more information on the CDC’s recommendations, visit http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/keyfacts.htm .

For more information, visit the Southern Nevada Health District Flu Web Page .