The following simple common-sense precautions can help prevent the spread of all types of influenza and illnesses:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick. That may mean canceling social plans with others while you are sick. You can join your friends when you are well. Your friends will thank you for not spreading your illness to them.

Stay home when you're sick or have flu symptoms. Get plenty of rest and check with a health care provider as needed.

Do not come to school when you are sick even if you have something important happening at school. Other students and staff who are well have plans too and do not want to get sick.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve, not your hands. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

Wash your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you against germs. When soap and water is not available, use a hand sanitizer to clean your hands.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs are spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his/her eyes, nose, or mouth.

Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious foods.