Health Officials report most of the country is battling a widespread outbreak of the flu and are urging people to get vaccinated now if they haven't already done so.


with so many people sick, the American Red Cross has steps people should take if they are caring for someone who has the flu.


Droplets of cough or sneeze

touch droplets on another person or object and then touches own mouth or nose before washing hands.

Wash your hands
for at least 20 seconds
Rinse and dry thoroughly with a disposable towel
Use the towel to turn off the faucet
If using an alcohol-based
hand sanitizer:

Rub thoroughly over the entire hand until the product dries

Sneezing & Coughing

do in into the elbow or upper arm, not the hands

cover mouth and nose with a tissue and wash hands afterwards

Designate only one adult as the caregiver

Deal with crisis situations calmly and confidently

Disinfect door handles, switches, and surfaces people touch

Use detergent and very hot water to do dishes and wash clothes

Eat a balanced diet, drink plenty of water, and get regular exercise

Stay at home for at least 24 hours after the
fever is gone without using medicine

Stay in separate room and avoid contact with
others as much as possible

Get lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids
Consider wearing a face mask

Check with your healthcare provider if you
should take antiviral drugs, or if fever persists,
whether antibiotics are needed