What Other Preventive Measures Can I Take Before Vaccination Is Available?
Dr. Schaffner answers the question: 'Prevention Before Vaccine Is Available?'
September 1, 2009 -- Question: What other preventive measures can I take before vaccination is available?
Answer: Well the important things that we can do to prevent influenza are number one get the regular seasonal influenza vaccine. We must remember that although we are transfixed with H1N1, seasonal flu will be around us also. So let's get that vaccine. It's going to be ready at the beginning of September in abundance wherever you usually get vaccinated. So let's do that.
The second thing is hand hygiene really is very very important. So repeatedly washing your hands, using either soap and water or the hand hygiene gels are very effective.
Third, obviously, try to avoid people who are coughing and sneezing. I know that this is difficult and then if you have an illness please stay home. Don't go out because you'll only spread the illness further. Those are the main things we can do.
