Canadian Red Cross urges flu prevention

The Canadian Red Cross is encouraging preventative techniques to protect against illnesses such as the flu.

“We recommend that Canadians take precautionary measures to protect themselves from all types of influenza,” says Salim Sohani, Senior Health Advisor for the Canadian Red Cross. “Washing your hands regularly with plenty of soap and warm water is a simple and effective way to protect yourself and stop the spread of germs to others.”

Additional recommendations are:

• Use a tissue or a handkerchief when you sneeze. If a tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into your arm rather than your hand.
• Do not go to work or school if you are feeling ill.
• Talk to your health care provider about the annual flu shot and other preventative health care measures.

Click here for educational resources designed to help children, parents, teachers and caregivers learn about the importance of illness prevention and control. For further information about preventing influenza please visit www.fightflu.ca.

posted Jan 14 2011