The following are valuable tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on how you can keep you and your family healthy as the flu season emerges.

Stay informed. Make yourself aware of news and updates regarding H1N1, as well as seasonal influenza and visit the CDC website often.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. Therefore, take everyday actions to stay healthy, including:

*Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
*Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
*Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
*Stay home if you get sick. The CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.