Though the 2009 – 2010 flu season is over, it's always a good idea to be vigilant about not spreading germs! Good coughing and sneezing hygiene, combined with frequent hand washing, can help keep you healthy all year long.

H1N1 flu (sometimes called "swine" flu) is a different strain of the influenza virus we see every year. It was first detected in the United States in April, 2009. It is a respiratory disease caused by the Influenza A virus.

It's important to protect yourself against the regular seasonal flu virus, as well as the H1N1 strain. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) strongly recommends seasonal as well as H1N1 flu vaccination. It's the best preventive step you can take.

How you can stay healthy

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
• Be prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so; a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand rubs, tissues and other related items might could be useful and help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Keep away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.