NJ Health Dept. Encourages Residents Take 3 Steps To Avoid Flu

NJ Health Dept. Encourages Residents Take 3 Steps To Avoid The Flu

Health officials in New Jersey are encouraging residents to take three steps to avoid the flu this year.

The steps, which the health department says are promoted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are meant to help to protect yourself and others during the peak of flu season.

The health department recommends:

1. Take the time to get a flu vaccine.

2. Take everyday preventative actions to stop the spread of germs.

3. Take flu antiviral drugs if your healthcare providers prescribes them.

New Jersey Health Commissioner Mary E. O'Dowd says New Jersey, like most of the nation, is experiencing widespread flu activity.

"Flu vaccination is the single most important step we can take to protect ourselves and our families against infection," O'Dowd said in a statement.

"The good news is that the U.S. Centers for disease Control and Prevention is reporting that the flu vaccine is a very good match for the strains of flu circulating in the community and early data indicates that individuals who are vaccinated have been 62 percent less likely to visit a doctor due to illness from the flu."

You can read more about the "Take 3" actions to fight the flu on the CDC website.

You can also find additional information in the links to the right of this story.