Flu Symptoms, Prevention and Etiquette to Get You Through Flu Season

Nearly 20,000 flu cases have been reported in New York alone according to WCBS. The flu is spreading like wildfire with thousands of people bed ridden with fevers, chills and cold-like symptoms. The New York Post reported that one soccer team in Manhattan has even banned high fiving, fist bumping and any other congratulatory touching due to the flu outbreak.

"It shows that (the club) is on top of what is going on with the flu outbreak, and they have come up with a great solution that shows good sportsmanship while also reducing the chance of transferring the flu," parent Andy Stenzler told the Post.

With the flu in full swing, what is flu etiquette and what are ways that you can prevent getting it, if you already haven't been plagued with it.

The CDC recommends the following actions to prevent getting the flu:

• "Wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• Practice good health habits. Get plenty of sleep and exercise, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat healthy food.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine."

Web Md reports that the flu is spread when germs from an infected person gets in your nose mouth or eyes and this can happen from them sneezing, coughing or sharing household items.

The Huffington Post reports that the flu can spread within six feet away, from coughing, sneezing or even just talking.

"Flu mostly spreads by hand when people touch droplet-contaminated surfaces and then touch their eyes, nose, or mouth," reports Web Md.

Web Md says hand washing is the best way to prevent spreading germs and keeping hand sanitizer on you is a great alternative when you can't get to the sink.

Also, flu vaccinations are important, so if you can get to the pharmacy or a doctor, this is the best way to prevent getting the flu.

The Emily Post Institute told the Huffington Post it is also a good idea to keep your hands below your shoulders in pubic. Don't touch your face, nose, mouth or eyes which could transmit germs.

Flu Symptoms include, tiredness, aches, fever, chills and sudden onset.

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