Stark County Health Department

FLU PREVENTION

Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease that can be prevented by immunization. It is caused by a virus that attacks the nose, throat, and lungs, but is different from a cold and the "stomach flu." Influenza symptoms come quickly in
the form of fever, headache, tiredness, dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion,
and body aches. These symptoms can be severe and wipe a person out for a
number of days. The best way to avoid influenza is to get a flu shot.

Influenza and the Common Cold

Click here to read about the how to protect yourself from the cold and flu

Handwashing

Handwashing is the single most effective method of disease prevention.
Please click on any of the links below to download a handwashing poster.

When Should I Wash my Hands
I’m a Fan of Handwashing
Bacteria Hands
Handwashing 1-2-3
Germ Buster

Practice Respiratory Etiquette

Most germs are spread by coughing and sneezing. If a person is sick with
the cold, flu or other illness, germs are sent into the air that may cause infection or disease.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (Be
sure to dispose of the tissue as soon as it is used)
If you don’t have a tissue on hand, cough into your upper sleeve, and not
your hands
Clean your hands after coughing or sneezing
Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 15-20 seconds
If you don’t have soap or water available, use an alcohol-based hand
cleaner

Respiratory Etiquette Posters and Brochures

Preventing Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
Be a Germ Stopper
Healthy Habits Keep your Family Well
Cover Your Cough
Cover Your Cough In a Hospital Setting
Stop-Help Protect Our Patients

Pandemic Influenza

A pandemic is when a disease affects the entire world. A pandemic occurs
when a disease spreads rapidly, affecting most countries and regions of the
world Influenza pandemics have occurred periodically throughout human
history – including a major pandemic in 1918, and smaller pandemics in
1957 and 1968. The symptoms of pandemic influenza are similar to those
of ordinary flu but are usually more severe.

Pandemic Influenza & Other Resources

OHIOPANDEMICFLU.GOV
PANDEMICFLU.GOV
CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION
OHIO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

General Quarantine Guidelines

Click here for a personal guide to quarantine issues.