Influenza is an acute viral infection of the respiratory tract. Influenza is highly infectious with a usual incubation period of one to three days. Flu is easily spread to other people. You're more likely to give it to others in the first five days.
The risk of serious illness from influenza is higher in people with low immunity.
Transmission is by droplets, aerosol, or through direct contact, spread by germs from coughs and sneezes, which can live on hands and surfaces for 24 hours.
To reduce the risk of spreading flu:
- Wash your hands often with warm water and soap
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze (if you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow, not into your hand) bin used tissues as quickly as possible
- Stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities.
Find out more in the attached policy or in the influenza poster.