How can I protect myself from getting the flu?

The first and most important step in preventing the flu is to get a flu vaccine. Flu vaccine has been shown to reduce flu-related illnesses and the risk of serious flu complications. Everyday actions can help protect you and prevent the spread of respiratory diseases such as staying away from people who are sick, covering coughs and sneezes, and frequent handwashing.

Antiviral chemoprophylaxis may be warranted following exposure to a person infected with influenza. Neuraminidase inhibitor antiviral medications are approximately 70% to 90% effective in preventing influenza against susceptible influenza viruses and can be helpful in certain cases.