Originally published in the Hideaway Lake News on Oct 1, 2019
Many of us will get the flu this season. And when that happens, let’s stay home so we don’t give it to someone else.
The flu usually lasts 7 days and is most contagious during the first 3-4 days, but you can continue to infect others for 7 or more days.
Most flu is spread from person to person through droplets but it can also spread by contact with hard surfaces. When you cough or sneeze, droplets can directly infect someone as far as 6 feet away from you. If you then touch a hard surface with saliva on your hands, the virus can stay there for upto 24 hours. So don’t play cards or mahjong or golf with your friends when you feel a little better after 2-3 days.You are still shedding the virus which can transfer on to the cards, the table, the tiles, the cart… you get the idea.
Be especially careful when you are around people over the age of 65, children less than 2 years old, and those who may have a chronic illness like asthma, diabetes, heart or kidney disease, as they are especially vulnerable to getting serious complications.
If you must come in contact with others, wear a mask and wash your hands often with soap and water.
Don’t make the flu the gift that keeps on giving!