Question: What cause the flu and how a person can prevent it?

Caroline Ogwang answered on 5 Jul 2017:

Hi Joshua,

Flu is caused by the influenza virus. Flu viruses travel through the air in droplets when someone with the infection coughs, sneezes or talks. You can inhale the droplets directly, or you can pick up the germs from an object and then transfer them to your eyes, nose or mouth.

You can prevent flu by:
1. Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
2. Stay home when you are sick to prevent spreading your illness to others.
3. Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue/handkerchief when coughing or sneezing.
4. Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
5. 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.
6. Practice other good health habits e.g. clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school, especially when someone is ill. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.