Community reminder: Take steps to prevent the flu
Influenza has been confirmed in all 16 counties in Maine, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC).
Members of the University of Maine community are reminded that it is not too late to get vaccinated. Vaccination can reduce illness and prevent hospitalization and death. Influenza vaccination is strongly encouraged throughout the season and is still widely available.
Maine CDC recommends the following preventative measures:
- Wash your hands frequently to prevent transmission of influenza.
- Cover your cough: Use tissues, or cough into your sleeve.
- Stay home when you are sick: Symptomatic individuals should remain home until 24 hours after fever resolves without the use of medications.
- Get vaccinated: Maine CDC recommends vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, especially for those people who are at high risk of serious complications from the flu. Influenza vaccine is provided at no cost by the state of Maine for children under the age of 19 years. The vaccine, which offers protection in 14 days, is still available through school-sponsored clinics, health care providers, and many local pharmacies.