CDC issues tips, tools to prevent spread of flu.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has developed a toolkit to help employers and employees prevent the spread of the flu in the workplace.

The toolkit contains general information about the flu and the two kinds of flu vaccines as well as three stories about real people who are taking steps to protect themselves and others from the disease It also contains a list of resources and recommendations specific to the workplace

Although the flu virus can strike throughout the year, it is especially active in the United States between the months of October and May. It spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing and can be distinguished by symptoms such as fever, headache, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, diarrhea, and/or vomiting.

Although most healthy people recover without suffering serious complications, it can cause pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes. Older people and children are at heightened risk from the flu.

The CDC recommends a flu vaccination each fall to prevent the disease, but also urges taking the following precautions to help decrease its spread:

* Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

* Stay home from work if you are sick.

* Cover your mouth and nose.

* Wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based cleaner.

* Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

The toolkit can be downloaded from www.cdc.gov/flu/workplace.