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Christmas Reminders from Alberta Health Services

Posted by Terry Van Veen | POST A COMMENT

With seasonal illness circulating, Alberta Health Services is reminding Albertans of routine precautions to protect health and prevent illness, this holiday season, and in the weeks and months ahead.

· Get your influenza immunization: Immunization is the single most effective means of preventing influenza. It’s not too late to be immunized. All Albertans, six months of age and older, are eligible to receive immunization, free of charge. Visit www.albertahealthservices.ca for clinic dates, times and locations.

· Clean your hands: Using soap and warm water, wash your hands thoroughly and often. Alcohol-based hand rub or sanitizers can also be helpful in warding off some – but not all – germs.

· Stay home if you are sick: Individuals experiencing symptoms of illness, including fever, cough, diarrhea and/or vomiting, should stay home from work, school, daycare or any social function. If you, or anyone in your household, is experiencing illness refrain from visiting family, friends or loved ones in hospitals, care facilities or seniors lodges.

· Around the house. If you are ill, do not prepare food for anyone, until fully recovered. Keep household surfaces (especially bedside tables and surfaces in the bathroom) clean, using a household disinfectant (follow directions on the product label). Think creatively when hosting gatherings: put a bow on a hand sanitizer pump and leave it out for guests to use; offer pre-wrapped candies or snacks instead of bowls of loose candies or snacks; thank others for declining invites due to illness.

For more information on influenza, influenza immunization, and other illnesses, visit www.albertahealthservices.ca or call Health Link Alberta, toll free at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).