The best tool for preventing the flu is the flu vaccine.

You need a flu shot every year because the virus constantly changes. New vaccines are developed annually to protect against new strains.

There are two types of vaccines:

• The “flu” shot- an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle. The flu shot is approved for use in people 6 months of age and older, including healthy people and people with chronic medical conditions.
  
• The nasal-spray flu vaccine is a vaccine made with live, weakened flu viruses that do not cause the flu, (sometimes called LAIV for “Live Attenuated Influenza Vaccine.” LAIV is approved for use in healthy people 2 to 49 years of age who are not pregnant.
  

About two weeks after vaccination, antibodies develop that protect against influenza virus infection.

Flu vaccines will not protect against flu-like illnesses caused by non-influenza viruses.

Another preventive measure you can take against the flu is one of the simplest and low tech methods around—serious hand washing.

Infectious diseases are commonly spread through hand-to-hand contact. Wash your hands often using soap for at least 15 to 20 seconds.

Other preventive steps incude:

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  
• Throw away tissues after using them
  
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available
  
• Clean commonly used surfaces often (e.g., desks, handrails, doorknobs)
  Avoid close contact
  
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth
• Stay hydrated
• While your body needs good nutrition all the time, it is especially necessary when it is fighting off a flu bug
• If your stomach is queasy, try some chicken soup for an easily digested meal