Basic prevention
View(s):Prevention of infection is always better and some basic precautions could ensure this. “Influenza is not highly contagious. It is mainly spread through droplets or direct contact. The infection period is 1 to 4 days,” says Dr. Jayamaha, adding that infected droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are up to about six feet away. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming ill. Children may pass on the virus for longer.
Those who have a cold, cough or influenza should resort to the following to avoid spreading the infection:
Respiratory hygiene & cough etiquette – Cover the nose and mouth with a tissue or handkerchief when coughing or sneezing or cover nose and mouth by lifting an arm and holding the inner surface of the arm or forearm against the nose and mouth.
Dispose of used tissues immediately into the nearest waste-bin.