The Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) are teaming up for the sixth season to help Hoosiers beat influenza (flu). Football season is flu season, and your best line of defense is to get vaccinated against the flu.
Indiana ranked 15th worst in the nation for influenza vaccination coverage last flu season, with about 48 percent of Hoosiers being vaccinated, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The flu vaccine is safe and effective and offers the best protection against the spread of the flu. Even if you've had a flu shot before, it is important to get one every flu season.
The game plan to help stop the spread of the flu is for Hoosiers to get a flu shot and to follow the "three Cs":
- Clean – Wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water.
- Cover – Cover your cough or sneeze with your arm or a disposable tissue.
- Contain – Stay home from work or school when you are sick to keep your germs from spreading.
Influenza vaccines are offered at a variety of providers, not just your doctor's office. Click here for an interactive map to find the most convenient place for you and your family to get a flu shot.
Keep in mind that antibiotics do not treat colds and the flu. Colds and flu are caused by viruses, while antibiotics treat infections caused by bacteria. In fact, taking antibiotics when they are not needed leads to antibiotic resistance, which means bacteria no longer respond to the drugs designed to kill them.
Want the chance to win two tickets to see the Colts take on Carolina AND an autographed T.Y. Hilton football? Enter here to register to win! www.colts.com/isdh
Gear up this flu season and join the Hoosier team to fight the flu!
