By now, you've probably heard about the threat of a worldwide flu outbreak that could restrict travel and kill millions nationwide.
The U.S. government is concerned enough about a flu outbreak that it has unveiled a national strategy to prepare for and respond to an influenza pandemic, which is defined as an epidemic over a wide geographic area.
And even if it doesn't get that bad, a recent study found that fighting the flu hasn't been getting easier. The number of flu-related hospitalizations in the U.S. has increased in the last two decades, and the flu season is longer than it used to be, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Take Action
What can you do? The best precaution is to get a flu shot if you haven't already. Although it's true the flu virus can mutate each year, and a shot won't provide total protection, it's a start.
Beyond that, remember what your mama always told you: wash your hands. As a trucker, you're on the road and in contact with other people more than most, and that means the odds of you coming into contact with (and picking up) the flu germ are higher than most folks.
Don't worry about always using alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Experts say plain old soap and water do the job just as well.
Here's when to be especially mindful of washing your hands:
- Before, during and after you prepare food;
- Before you eat
- After you use the bathroom
- After blowing your nose
- After shaking hands with someone
- More frequently when someone in your home is sick.
