As fall approaches, most of us begin preparing for the upcoming holiday festivities. But there is another season that starts around the same time that we have to prepare for -- flu season. Every year, between 25 and 50 million people catch the flu in the United States alone. With rising concerns over new strains, like bird or swine flu, it is imperative that we prepare for flu season with preventative measures from shots to hand sanitizer.

Vaccinations - Who, What, And When

Vaccinations are one of the best methods for preventing complications from the virus. It is still possible to get sick even after being vaccinated, but the resulting illness should be much less severe. Overall, yearly vaccinations provide effective protection against both seasonal and emerging strains of the virus.

For the average adult, the flu is normally not fatal. However, at-risk groups should be getting a shot every year. These groups include children and the elderly, people who have asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or are immuno-compromised.

Timing is important when getting a yearly shot. A vaccine has a certain effective life time in the body. Getting the shot too early might leave a person unprotected towards the end of the season and if you wait too long, you might catch the flu early. The timing each year will vary, but the shot usually becomes available in September and at risk groups should take them early. Shots continue to be available through January as well.

Hand Sanitizer And Other Preventative Measures

Beyond vaccination, preventing the spread of any illness is vital. Catching the flu, even a mild version due to the vaccine, is no fun. Lost time at work or school coupled with getting the rest of the family sick is an inconvenience to say the least. Infection control is based on hand sanitizers and surface disinfection.

Hand sanitizers, or even frequent washing with soap and water, are the best tool for fighting the spread of flu and other illnesses. The hands come in contact with so many other people and surfaces that are all possible sources of infection that hand sanitizers are practically essential. A good hygiene regimen with hand sanitizer, plus keeping surfaces in the home disinfected, will drastically cut down on the potential for spreading illnesses.

Getting Ready At The Office And School

Hand sanitizer dispensers are even more important when we are away from the home where we can't wash our hands regularly. Hand sanitizer dispensers at an office desk or in a pocket are a quick and easy way to protect ourselves when we are out and about during the day. Keep a hand sanitizer dispenser nearby and use it before and after meals along with meeting people or handling communal items like a copier or computer.

Prevention is key for every flu season, so get your shots and keep a hand sanitizer dispenser handy.