Protect Yourself and Your Staff.

The single best way to prevent the flu is to vaccinate your staff as well as your patient population who meet the requirements. By following strict infection-control protocols and practicing good health habits, you can help protect key personnel and those in your care with compromised immune systems against the flu.

1. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Although it is almost impossible to follow this advice in the average practice, keep your “distance” by proper use of protective apparel such as gloves, masks, and isolation gowns.

2. Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.

3. Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.

4. Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Other proactive tactics include keeping bottles of antibacterial gel in strategic locations or investing in hands-free dispensers both inside and outside public res troom areas.

5. Disinfect your work environment.
Sanitize all examination, treatment, waiting, and employee areas regularly and thoroughly. This includes frequently touched yet often forgotten areas such as, phones, keyboards, office equipment, break room counters, door handles, etc.

6. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

7. Practice other good health habits.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.