Whether you receive a flu shot or not, there are some other steps you can take to avoid the flu this year and stay healthy:

*Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.

*Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.

*Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

*Seek care early. See your health care provider immediately if you develop flu symptoms; antiviral medications can help if taken early in the illness.