Precautions and Preparations You Can Take for Flu Season, Coronavirus Concerns

If you are displaying any of the following symptoms please contact your primary care provider:  

• Fever or lower respiratory illness 
• Cough
• Shortness of breath  

Tips for Staying Healthy, and Protecting Those Around You

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. (Stay at least 3 to 6 feet away.)
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
• Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces that you touch frequently (door or sink handles, railings, phones, computer keyboards, etc.).
• Stay at home and away from others if you are feeling ill.
• Monitor your temperature. (A fever is 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.) Remain home from work or school if you have a fever or you aren’t feeling well.

Get a Flu Shot

As of March 8, 2020, the City’s Health and Human Services Department still has free flu vaccines available for residents ages 3 and older, with or without insurance. If you or someone you know is still in need of a flu shot it is still strongly encouraged that you receive one as soon as possible. Contact 311 (617-666-3311) for information. A flu shot will not protect you from COVID-19 directly, but it will help to keep you healthier overall, which is important to fending off or recovering from COVID-19..