While some people think the flu vaccine is for the very young or the very old, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) actually recommends that everyone, with the exception of babies under 6 months old, get an annual flu vaccine. 

According to Dr. José Montero, New Hampshire’s public health director, there have been 16 flu-related deaths in the state thus far this year, a number deemed unusually high for this early in the flu season, which typically runs from December through March.  

The flu is spread from person to person through coughing and sneezing. Someone who has the flu is typically infectious from one day prior to getting sick to about 5 days after the first symptoms. After exposure, a person will usually get sick in about one to four days but most often within two days. 

UNH’s Health Services offers the following advice on how to reduce your chances of getting the flu:

 • Wash your hands often and well with soap and water or an alcohol based hand cleaner.

 • Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or use a tissue. Don’t use your hands.

 • Don’t share towels, eating utensils, toothbrushes, drinking glasses or other items.

 • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

 • Sleep and eat well.

 • Stay home when you’re sick.

 • As much as possible, avoid close contact with people who are sick.

 • Get the seasonal flu vaccine.

 For more information on the flu, flu prevention and self-care if ill, visit: www.unh.edu/health-services.