10/22/2023
How the Flu Spreads
People with flu can spread it to others mainly through droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.
It is possible to spread the flu to others before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Some people can be infected with the flu virus but have no symptoms. During this time, those people may still spread the virus to others.
Preventing the Flu
The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year.
Good health habits like avoiding people who are sick, covering your cough or sneeze, washing your hands (using alcohol-based hand sanitizer if washing is not possible), avoiding contact with your nose, eyes, or mouth, and staying home if you have flu-like symptoms also help prevent the spread of flu.