The Flu is here----don’t let your phone or tablet spread it!

Flu season is here and it has settled into the DMV area- This CDC Map shows high flu activity numbers in Maryland

Did you know that viruses like the flu, can survive on inanimate objects like mobile phones, particularly in colder climates and during flu season? It’s very important to take steps to avoid getting the flu from our smartphones, tablet, wireless headphones, chargers, and virtual goggles –any mobile device that’s shared.

Nowadays, people take their phones with them everywhere they go, from the gym to the bathroom and then to the dinner table and even to bed. Throughout your day, you inevitably shake hands, touch doorknobs and staircase railings – and then you touch your phone and put it against your face. Here are a few tips to help you avoid getting the flu from your phone or mobile device:

*If you are sick and experiencing flu symptoms, do not share your phone and stay home to avoid infecting others. Keep your germs to yourself.

* We know you hear it all the time – but wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer in between

* Disinfect your phone frequently. Use a wrung-out disinfectant wipe or spray a paper towel with disinfectant, then wipe phone. Don’t spray the phone.

*Try using a Bluetooth device or other hands-free headset, minimizing your keypad-to-face exposure, clean that device frequently.

*Don't use your phone in a restroom.

You can get more info at websites like:

Flu Near You: https://flunearyou.org/#!/