CHIEF’S CORNER: FLU SAFETY TIPS

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By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

Ignorance or Arrogance?

February 23, 2016 (San Diego’s East County) -- You probably don’t remember me, but I remember you. At the bank, the gym, the receptionist...you were the one disgustingly sneezing, coughing and hacking without covering your mouth. Like a driver texting, you’re placing everyone else at risk. Is it just ignorance or arrogance?

Flu activity peaks between December and March resulting in more than 200,000 hospitalizations and thousands of deaths each year reminds Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna.

What you could have done once symptoms came on. Stay at home and avoided contact with others. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or arm when coughing or sneezing. If you are really ill contact your doctor. Most importantly refrain from work, school, travel, shopping, social events, and public gatherings until feeling better. Use some common sense!

How to avoid getting sick? Avoid touching your eyes, nose, ears or mouth. Drink fluids even when you feel well. Wash your hands often and clean surfaces shared with others such as keyboards, telephones, exercise equipment, TV, remotes etc. Eat right and exercise.

And to the food server, please don’t cough on my food when waiting on me. Your Tip: Stay home!

For additional Flu Facts and Prevention visit: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/symptoms.htm


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