For both the seasonal flu and swine flu, the virus spreads quickly. But you can help fight germs by doing these small things:

1. Washing your hands frequently with soap and water or using alcohol hand rubs
2. Covering your mouth and nose with your sleeve or a tissue when you sneeze
3. Staying home when you are sick

In addition, you can decrease your odds of getting the flu by:

1. Staying up-to-date on your other screenings and immunizations
2. Eating healthy and exercising
3. Getting a flu shot! (fewer than 30 percent of Americans got a flu shot last year)

What about facemasks?
With the onset of H1N1 (swine flu), many people worldwide have begun using facemasks. Generally speaking, facemasks do not keep healthy people from getting the flu. The best prevention is to simply avoid being near someone who is infected and to follow the tips listed above. However, for those who are already sick, facemasks can be helpful to prevent further spread of the virus. Find more information on the use of facemasks and respirators.