Thursday, December 31, 2009

Three simple steps to a healthy new year

1. Add Vaccination to Your List of Resolutions – Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu. To find the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccine clinics nearest you, visit www.maineflu.gov or call 211 for Maine-based clinics, or visit www.flu.gov for clinics elsewhere. There are more clinics being added every day, so check it out!

2. Be a Germ Stopper – Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands often, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way. Also, stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick. For additional information, see how to prevent and treat the flu.

3. Check the Facts and Stay Informed – Visit www.maineflu.gov or www.flu.gov regularly for the latest information. Heard a rumor? Visit Myths & Facts to run a fact check. Have a question? Email us at flu.questions@maine.gov or call 211. Want to stay informed? Sign up for the RSS feed or Maine CDC on Facebook or Maine CDC on Twitter for our weekly updates, health advisories, and/or press releases.


If you’ve been vaccinated already, please share this message with friends and family and let them know why the H1N1 vaccine is safe and recommended by health experts. The 2009 H1N1 flu vaccine is made the same way as the seasonal flu vaccine. Millions of people have safely received the H1N1 vaccine, including the President, First Lady and their children.

Also, consider posting a flyer at your work, school and local community centers. www.maineflu.gov and flu.gov offers free outreach materials available in multiple languages.