Every autumn brings us beautiful foliage, cool weather and pumpkin-spiced-flavored everything; however, autumn also means the dreaded flu season.

Although people can get the flu at any time of the year, their chances of contracting it increase around fall and winter when the weather is colder. October means influenza activity will begin to increase, so below are some tips to help you protect yourself from the flu:

• Try to stop the spread of germs. This can be easily done through everyday actions such as covering your mouth when you cough, covering your nose when you sneeze and washing your hands. During flu season, wash your hands regularly with plenty of soap and warm water for at least 15-20 seconds. Other preventative actions include avoiding close contact with those who are sick or limiting contact with others if you are the one who’s sick. You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Because we do not see them, it can be easy to forget that germs are everywhere, including your hands, as seen in the picture.
•  Take prescribed flu anti-viral drugs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises to take flu anti-viral drugs if your doctor prescribes them. Anti-viral drugs, which are not available over-the-counter, can weaken flu symptoms and can also shorten the time you are sick.
• Get a flu vaccine. The CDC recommends that everyone get a yearly flu vaccine to protect themselves from flu viruses. Young children, pregnant women and those with certain chronic health conditions such as diabetes, asthma or heart and lung disease, as well as people who are 65 years and older, are all at high risk of getting the flu. 

Flu shots are available at no cost during the month of October at various Americares Free Clinics in Danbury, Norwalk, Bridgeport and Stamford. Those over the age of 18 without health insurance are eligible for this vaccine. Full time Board of Education members and city employees (not including tutors, coaches, substitutes or interns) are eligible for a free flu vaccine in the nurse’s office.