The flu is annoying enough on its own. So it doesn't help that
flu season falls at one of the most exciting times of the year.
To avoid missing out on sports events, Halloween parties,
Thanksgiving feasts, and holiday fun, follow these tips: Get the
flu vaccine. It's the best way to protect yourself against the
flu. Hate shots? Most teens can get the flu vaccine as a .
Getting vaccinated doesn't just protect your own health. It also
helps the people around you because there's less chance you'll
catch the flu and pass it on. Wash your hands often. In addition
to getting the flu vaccine, hand washing is an important line of
defense against germs like flu viruses. Why? The body takes
about 2 weeks to build immunity after a flu vaccine — and even a
vaccine isn't foolproof if a new strain of virus starts making
the rounds. Hand washing also helps protect against other germs
and illnesses that there aren't vaccines for, like the common
cold. Wash your hands after using the bathroom; after coughing
or sneezing; befo