Suggestions for Flu Prevention
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) recommends that people traveling over the winter holidays take precautions to avoid getting or spreading the flu. Primary precautions for reducing the risk of getting or spreading influenza are:
- Cover coughs and sneezes to reduce the spread of viruses and other germs
- Stay home if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner
Symptoms
People with the flu generally can transmit the virus to others from one day before getting sick to from three to seven days after getting sick. The length of time between exposure to the flu virus and development of symptoms ranges from one to four days and is typically about two days. Symptoms of the flu, which usually come on suddenly, include:
- Cough
- Extreme fatigue
- Fever
- Headaches
- Muscle aches
- Runny or stuff nose
- Sore throat
Additional Information
Getting vaccinated with a flu shot can provide protection from influenza throughout the season. The flu season in Texas generally runs from October through March, peaking in January and February. Visit the
federal government flu website.