

Preventing Seasonal Flu Illness

Questions & Answers

What can I do to protect myself against the flu?

The single best way to protect against the flu is to get a flu vaccine each year. CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older, especially people at high risk for developing serious complications from flu, get vaccinated each season. To learn more, see Key Facts about Flu Vaccine.

What are other steps that can be taken to prevent flu illness?

Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Also, antiviral medications, which can treat flu illness, may be used in certain circumstances to prevent the flu.



How long can influenza viruses live on hard surfaces (such as books or doorknobs)?

Studies have shown that human influenza viruses generally can survive on surfaces between 2 and 8 hours.

What kills influenza viruses?

Influenza viruses can be destroyed by heat (167-212°F [75-100°C]). In addition, several chemical germicides, including chlorine, hydrogen peroxide, detergents (soap), iodophors (iodine-based antiseptics) and alcohols are effective against influenza viruses if used in proper concentrations for a sufficient length of time. For example, alcohol-based hand rubs can be used in the absence of soap and water for hand washing.

Influenza viruses on the surface of objects also can be killed by ultraviolent C (UV-C) radiation (at a wavelength of 200–270 nm; e.g., 254 nm). UV-C may be provided by exposure to direct sunlight or light from a mobile UV-C device. To date, there are no published studies that demonstrate reduced transmission of influenza viruses by using UV-C devices in household settings.

