Texas Mutual Insurance offers tips to prevent H1N1 flu

Flu season peaks in January and February. For adults, the workplace is the most common place to catch the flu.

Texas Mutual Insurance Company, the state’s leading provider of workers’ compensation insurance, encourages the public to follow these tips to reduce their chances of getting sick:

• Get a flu shot. This is the best way to reduce your chances of getting sick, but talk to your doctor before you get a shot. Some employers offer flu shots. If yours does not, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services at www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/flu.shtm or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.flu.gov/individualfamily/vaccination/locator.html. Remember that seasonal flu shots do not protect you from the H1N1 flu strain.
• Clean your hands often. Wash your hands frequently, for at least 20 seconds, with soap and water or alcohol-based hand cleaners. Keep hand sanitizer at your desk.
• Disinfect your work area. Scrub your telephone, desk and keyboard with a common household cleaner.
• Keep your distance. Keep your distance from sick people by holding more teleconferences or virtual meetings. If you have to be in the same room with a sick co-worker, try to stay at least six feet away.
• Listen to your body. Fever, coughing, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, body aches, chills and fatigue are common symptoms of seasonal flu. People who have the H1N1 flu strain might also experience diarrhea and vomiting. If you feel like you are getting sick, call a doctor immediately. Refer to your company’s policy to decide whether you should stay home.