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Keep fl u germs out of your home with these helpful hints. fighting THE Flu Virus the " vampire method" Every fall, like clockwork, children play sports, dress up like superheros and pass around germs at school. One of the biggest culprits? Not cooties, but the fl u. While most children who get the fl u need nothing more than to stay in bed, consume fl uids and take fever reducers, it can be miserable for both parent and child and lead to missed school days and workdays. GOODBYE, GERMS Fortunately, you can keep viruses and bacteria that can cause fever, chills and body aches out of your home with a few simple solutions. Cover your mouth Using the "vampire method" to cover sneezes and coughs with the bend of the elbow allows germs to dry out and die on the fabric of a sleeve or your skin without being passed to anyone else. After all, how often do you shake elbows with someone? Don't share While this goes against everything we're taught as children, not sharing utensils, cups and even toys will prevent transmission of the fl u"virus. Get your fl u shot The vaccine protects against this year's fl u strains, and if you do get sick, the symptoms won't be nearly as"severe. Wash your hands While this seems basic, it's one that people often forget! Use soap and warm water to wash hands often in order to keep your defenses up against germs and prevent their spread. ✚ Know Your Vaccines The fl u vaccine o¢ ers protection during fl u season, but there are other vaccines that are also important for adults: Hepatitis — Adults can be vaccinated for hepatitis A and B with one vaccine given in three shots. Pneumonia — Adults age 65 and older, who have not had the vaccine, need one dose of PCV13. Follow with one dose of PPSV23 one year later. Shingles — Adults age 60 and older receive one dose. Tdap and DTaP — A single dose of Tdap protects those age 11 and older against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (whooping cough), and while DTaP protects against the same ill`nesses, it is given in fi ve doses to children between ages 2 months and six¤years. Td boosters are recommended every 10 years, and pregnant women should receive Tdap boosters. If you are unsure about your vaccination record, talk with your physician. To fi nd a physician near you, visit christushealth.org or call (844) 274-DOCS (3627). prevent their spread. prevent their spread. ✚ Get up to date on your vaccinations. Find a provider near you at stvin.org or call (505) 913-3000. HEALTH AWARE 10 If you are unsure about your vaccination record, talk with your physician. To find a physician near you, visit stvin.org or call (505) 913-3000. st vin.org | Fall 2016