7 Ways Latinos Can Prevent the Flu (No. 1 is Get Vaccinated!)

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Latinos are less likely to receive the flu vaccine than other ethnic groups.

That’s why, for National Influenza Vaccination Week Dec. 7-13, 2014, the Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention (CDC) is inviting Latinos to protect against the flu with vaccination and other preventive measures.

Here are the top seven ways to prevent the flu:

1. Vaccination is the first and most important step to protect against flu. The vaccine reduces one’s risk of illness, hospitalization, or even death and can prevent the spread of the virus to loved ones. Flu vaccines are offered in many locations, including doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, retail stores and pharmacies, and health centers, as well as by many employers and schools.

2. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

3. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

4. Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not a

vailable, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

6. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.

7. Follow public health advice if an outbreak of flu or another illness occurs. This may include information about how to increase distance between people and other measures.

Go to flu.gov in English or Spanish to learn more.

Or check out this Spanish-language video based on a true story of a Hispanic couple expecting their second child—a tragic reminder of the importance of annual flu vaccination for pregnant women and their family.