 The most recent report by the Centers for Disease Control shows
influenza activity remains high, with increasing numbers of deaths
and people who are ill. All 50 states report residents with the flu,
and the virus is widespread across 41 states. More than 4,600 people
across the country have been hospitalized with flu complications
since October.But the American Red Cross has a series of tips to
defend against the flu during Super Bowl festivities.
Seven pro party tips:
1. If you are sick or someone in your household is ill, bench
yourself and stay home. And if you're planning to host a party and
get sick with the flu, cancel the party,
2. Avoid a penalty flag for unnecessary germ spreading by covering
your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or cough and sneeze into your
upper sleeve, not your hands. Throw the tissues away and clean your
hands after coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose. Avoid touching
your nose, mouth and eyes.
3. Call frequent timeouts for hand washing. Wash your hands with
soap and water for 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
if soap and water aren't available.
4. Before the guests huddle up at the party, hosts should make sure
there is plenty of soap and disposal hand towels or paper towels in
the bathroom.
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5. Pro players don't share water bottles, so don't let anyone else
drink out of your glass, cup, can or bottle. Write names on the cups
or mark them in some way to keep them separate, and defend against
mix-ups.
6. Avoid a party foul. If the host has a super bowl of chips or
nuts, use a spoon or tongs instead of plunging your hand into the
bowl. Your teammates will award you extra points.
7. If your team scores a touchdown or makes a big play, avoid the
kisses or high-fives with friends. Try an elbow bump or your own
individual touchdown dance.
More information about how to help keep you and your loved ones
protected from the flu is available at
redcross.org/FluTips
[Text from file received from the
American Red Cross, Central Illinois
Chapter]
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