By Angelina Anisimova, DDS
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January 31, 2019
The flu virus is contagious and spreads through coughs, saliva, and sneezes. Flu symptoms take a few days to appear once a person has contracted the flu virus. Various types of flu strains exist. The flu is most prevalent during the colder months of the year. Typically, the season runs from October to March, but it isn’t uncommon to get the flu in the summer months, too. The flu virus can live on hard surfaces for nearly 2 days. It can survive on clothing for 12 hours. When caring for yourself or a loved one who has the flu, wash your hands often. It is also important to keep surfaces and areas that are shared with others clean. Wipe down door handles and remote controls. Keep phones, computers, and tablets clean with microfiber towels and only use with clean hands. Be mindful when doing laundry to wash your hands after handling clothes carrying the virus.