The influenza (the flu) virus spreads through person-to-person contact when droplets spray out of an infected person's nose or mouth when they talk, sneeze, cough or laugh. It can also be spread after a person touches an infected surface and then touches his or her eyes, mouth or nose. Unfortunately, people can spread the virus before they even know they're infected and the virus can live on a surface for 6 to 8 hours! Generally, a person can be infected up to a week before symptoms start to show.

Peak flu season can begin in late fall and last through early spring.

What Can I do to protect myself and children?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends influenza vaccines to anyone who wants to lessen their chances of being infected. However, they especially recommend flu vaccinations for the following:

People at a higher risk of developing complications from the flu:

• Children from 6 months to 5 years of age
• Pregnant women
• People 50 years of age or older
• People of any age with certain chronic conditions
• People who live in nursing homes or other health care facilities

People who live or work with people in higher risk categories:

• Household contacts with the higher risk categories (see list above)
• Household contacts and child care givers working with children under the age of 6 months (as these children are too young for vaccinations)
• Health care workers

If you are unsure if you should receive the flu vaccine, consult your physician.

Other ways to avoid the flu

• Good hand washing habits. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, mouth or nose. A good hand washing should last through one recitation of the alphabet or 2 verses of "Happy Birthday" (a fun way to get kids into this healthy habit).
• Avoid people who are sick with respiratory illnesses.
• If you are sick, stay home from work or school until you feel better so you don't spread the virus.
• Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing to prevent spreading the virus.

Common flu symptoms

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Dry cough
• Muscle aches
• Stomach symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea (though this is more common in children)

If you have the flu and seem to be getting worse after a couple of days, then you might have a complication and should see your doctor.

 �Prevention of the flu by handwashing and vaccination are your best bets,� says Dr. Donald Lighter, Associate Director of Medical Affairs at Shriners Hospitals for Children, �but if you have the flu, use common sense, take plenty of fluids, and get plenty of rest. If you think you�re getting sicker, rather than better after a couple of days, then it�s best to check with your doctor.�