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.

FHN is offering H1N1 vaccinations, for $33, at all Freeport and regional Healthcare Centers. Call the FHN clinic nearest you to schedule a quick visit for you and your family. The Stephenson County Health Department also offers H1N1 vaccination clinics – please check their Web site for more information.

How you can stay healthy

Give flu the WAVE!

WASH your hands often with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
Cough or sneeze into your ARM, or use a tissue, then throw it away.
Get VACCINATED.
Treat EARLY. Call your healthcare provider if you don’t feel well.

Other important actions that you can take

• 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.