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The following information has been provided by the State of Massachusetts Department of Public Health. The flu vaccine is presently in short supply and health care providers have been directed to prioritize the recipients of the available vaccine, dispensing it first to those at high risk for complications from influenza. The following measures should be taken in order to avoid transmitting or getting the flu or other respiratory illnesses.
- Good hand hygiene: people should wash hands or use alcohol hand rubs or gels after being in public or after contact with anyone with a cold or flu.
- Cough etiquette: When coughing, one should turn the head and cough or sneeze into a disposable tissue and promptly dispose of the used tissue; or cough in the inside of the elbow if a tissue is not available.
- Avoid taking young children or immunocompromised people into large crowds unnecessarily when flu is in the community.
- Avoid close contact (holding, kissing) between infants and anyone who has a cold or the flu.
- Do not share things that go into the mouth, such as drinking cups, straws, etc.
- If people are experiencing respiratory symptoms with a fever, they should refrain from public activities for at least five days (maximum infectiousness last 3-5 days in adults and up to 7 days in children) to prevent spread of the infection.
- If someone has a severe or prolonged flu-like illness, they should see medical attention.
An information line on influenza has been established at 866-627-7968. Questions concerning specific situations may be directed to the Division of Epidemiology and Immunization at 617-983-6800. For further
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