Flu season is in full swing and it is a bad one. Patients are filling urgent care centers, doctor’s offices and emergency rooms. The flu spreads easily in crowded locations and that includes your work.

Flu is contracted by inhaling respiratory droplets produced by coughing or sneezing. You can also become infected by touching an object contaminated by the flu virus and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes. Avoid spreading or getting the flu at work by:

• Washing your hands often and making sure that your work space is clean. Use disinfecting wipes or sprays on your desk, phone, copier and anything else that your co-workers touch.

• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or the inside of your elbow instead of your bare hand.

• Empty trash cans that are filled with tissues.

• Stay home until your symptoms are gone so that you do not infect others on the job.

• Most importantly, get a flu shot.

It is not too late to be vaccinated against the virus. But, keep in mind that it takes two about weeks from the time the shot is given for you to develop maximum protection. You can get a flu shot with little or no wait at any Patient First medical center.