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Flu Awareness: How to Stay Safe and Healthy This Winter



What is Influzena (FLU)? 

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious viral infection that impacts the respiratory system and spreads quickly in crowded areas such as schools and workplaces. The best way to protect yourself and others is through vaccination. The virus typically peaks between the winter months of December and February.  

 

How Does the Flu Spread?  

The flu spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking. It can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and then the face. The virus can spread before symptoms appear and for up to a week after illness starts. Taking preventative steps during flu season is important to reduce transmission.  

 

Preventing the Flu  

  1. Getting Vaccinated: The key to avoiding the flu is getting an annual vaccine, recommended for everyone aged six months and older to reduce the risk of infection. 

  2. Practice Proper Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching public surfaces, to protect against germs. Use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol to reduce germ spread. 

  3. Cover Your Cough and Sneeze: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow to prevent germs and dispose of used tissues immediately. 

  4. Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from sick individuals. If you are unwell, stay home to avoid spreading the virus, especially in crowded places. 

  5. Clean and Disinfect: Regularly disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and phones, as these can carry flu viruses. 

 

 

Treatment for Flu 

  • Rest and stay hydrated.  

  • Over-the-counter medications can relieve symptoms like fever and body aches.  

  • A healthcare provider may prescribe antiviral medications  

 

Jemez Public Health Vaccine Clinics 

  1. December 7, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the clinic will be held at the Jemez Public Health office at 139-B Bear Head Canyon Rd. No appointment is needed.  

  2. December 9, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM, the clinic will be held inside the Jemez Public Health office at 139-B Bear Head Canyon Rd. No appointment is needed. 

  3. December 16, 2024 – clinic will be held outside the Pueblo Church.

  • 8:00 AM –10:00 AM 

  • 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

  1. December 19, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM at the Jemez Public Health Office. 

  2. December 19, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM, at the CRC building (during Healthy Connections event). 

 

What If I miss the vaccine clinics?  

If you are unable to attend any of these clinics, you can schedule an appointment for yourself and your family at the Jemez Health Center by calling (575) 834-7413. 


Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in keeping you healthy and flu-free this season! Stay safe, stay warm, and take care of yourself.

 


 
 
 

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