To help in reducing the spread of disease, community strategies that delay or reduce the impact of a pandemic (also called non-pharmaceutical interventions) is suggested until a vaccine is available.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. If you or someone you know should become ill, this individual should stay home from work or school, delay international travel, and limit contact with others. For people developing symptoms following travel, these individuals should seek medical attention. To avoid contracting influenza there are everyday actions we can take to stay healthy:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective when soap and water is not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• Seek medical attention if you develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.
• Look for information on your local and state government web sites.
• Listen to local and national radio, watch news reports, other reliable sources of printed and web-based information.
• Talk to your health care provider and public health officials.

Visit the links below to learn more about the influenza and measures you can take:

• Harris County Public Health & Environmental Services: http://www.hcphes.org/ or by calling (713) 212-0200 between 8:00 a.m. and  8:00 p.m.
• Texas Department of State Health Services: http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/
• Center for Disease Control and Prevention: http://www.cdc.gov/ or call (800) 232-4636 (TTY: 1-888-232-6358)
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at http://www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/tab3.html