"It is very easy for teens to pick up illness-causing germs from their friends at school and spread them to their families and others," said Dr. Harley Rotbart, infectious diseases specialist and author of Germ Proof Your Kids. "Because teens have so much going on, it is very important that they follow simple prevention steps like getting vaccinated and practicing effective hand hygiene so they do not miss out on the big events in their lives. Parents can also help by making sure that frequently touched surfaces are disinfected as directed and that their teens eat right, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly."

To help prevent the spread of flu viruses, in February 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded the flu vaccination recommendations to include all children from six months through 18 years old.

Keep the Flu Virus Out of the Competition

There are various ways teachers and families can help "eliminate" flu viruses so they don't miss out on the things they care about the most. Vaccination is the first and most important step in seasonal flu and H1N1 prevention, but the following simple steps can also help prevent flu viruses from spreading:

After You Hi-Five, Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds after any activity that involves others (like sports practice, play practice or school dances) or after touching frequently touched surfaces.Disinfecting 101: It is important that frequently touched surfaces in the classroom and home and shared items like desks, cell phones and light switches, are disinfected as directed.Share the Scoop Not Your Sneeze: Cough and sneeze into your elbow instead of your hands to help prevent the spread of germs from touch. The Health Teacher Is Right: Eat right (especially foods with lots of vitamin C), exercise, dress warmly when it's cold, and get plenty of sleep to help boost your body's ability to fight the effects of the seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu.

SOURCE The Clorox Company