Region offers tips on how to fight flu

With cold and flu season in full swing, the Region is encouraging residents to take steps to reduce the illness. Halton Medical Officer of Health Dr. Bob Nosal said there are several things one can do to help the situation. This includes: · Staying home and avoiding contact with others when ill. If possible, sleep in a separate room. Children-- especially those in day care-- and food handlers with nausea, vomiting or diarrhea should stay home for 48 hours after symptoms have stopped. · Seeing a family doctor if illness persists or becomes worse or calling Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000 to speak with a registered nurse · Coughing into a sleeve or tissue · Cleaning and disinfecting all contaminated surfaces and frequentlytouched surfaces like doorknobs, faucet taps and toilet handles · Avoiding visits to long-term care homes, hospitals and retirement homes · Washing one's hands frequently with soap and water or using alcoholbased hand rub · Avoiding contact with those who are ill as much as possible · Receiving the flu shot For more information contact Halton Region at 905-825-6000 or visit www.halton.ca.