Prevention of influenza includes:

• Seasonal influenza vaccine
• H1N1 influenza vaccine:
• For those with influenza risk factors that may result in severe illness
• Avoid exposure to the influenza virus:
• Avoid close contact with anyone who has influenza.
• Avoid large groups of people.
• Do not share cups or eating utensils.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands -- with soap and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds.
• Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Avoid touching nose and mouth.
• Avoid travel during epidemic.

If you have influenza, you should stay home for 7 days after your symptoms begin, or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This prevents you from infecting others and spreading the virus.