The most obvious prevention method is the flu jab, which contains small, deactivated and purified strains of the virus itself (normally grown in hens’ eggs), and works by stimulating your body’s immune system to make antibodies – proteins which fight off germs – to attack it.
If you’re exposed to influenza after having the vaccine, your immune system will recognise the virus and immediately produce antibodies to fight it.
Although it’s impossible to protect yourself completely, Prof Dingwall says you can reduce your chances of catching or spreading flu by washing your hands often with warm soapy water. ‘If you’ve been out shopping or commuted into work, wash your hands afterwards,’ he cautions.
Use tissues rather than handkerchiefs when you cough or sneeze, and bin them as quickly as possible, rather than keeping them in your pocket where germs can survive.
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