Cold & Flu Center
There are three primary actions you can take to protect yourself and others from the flu:
Vaccination
This is your best defense against the flu. There are two types of vaccines: the "flu shot," an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is administered by needle, and the nasal-spray flu vaccine, made with live, weakened flu viruses that do not cause the flu.
Good Health Hygiene
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick. This includes staying home from work, school, and errands. When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. Washing your hands often will help protect you from spreading germs on your hands to your eyes, nose, and mouth. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
Antiviral Drugs
Four antiviral drugs (amantadine, rimantadine, zanamavir, and oseltamivir) are approved for use in preventing the flu. Because the flu virus changes each year, your doctor will know which medication is recommended for fighting this year's bug. Antivirals are effective only if taken within two days after becoming sick. When used in this manner, these medications can reduce influenza symptoms and may shorten your illness by one or two days. They may also make you less contagious.
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