For information on healthy living and eating tips, visit WebMD's site.

Tips for Staying Healthy
- Wash, Wash, Wash your hands
- Try not to shake people's hands when sick
- If running a fever, stay home
- Sneeze into a Kleenex if possible
- Sanitize hands after sneezing
- Cough & Sneeze in your elbow
- Take a multivitamin everyday
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep
- Run a humidifier
- Wipe down your shopping cart.  Most stores in town offer free sanitizing wipes, use them! 
- When using public restrooms, use a paper towel to shut off water after washing hands and to open the door when leaving


Tips for a Healthier You
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator when possible
- Put 3 lb. weights by your favorite chair and lift while watching your favorite TV show
- While watching TV do sit ups, leg lifts, squats, jumping jacks, etc
- Make children "earn" time spent on sedentary activities by exercising or doing household chores
- Use recorded DVD and DVR programs while you exercise, distractions help the time pass faster
- Choose fruit, celery, or carrots instead of candy or pastries
- Drink 8 oz of water every hour
- Eat breakfast at home and take a lunch to work
- Plan meals ahead of time to avoid mealtime emergencies that result in trips through the drive thru
- When sitting at your desk, take a 3 minute stretch break every hour.  Stretch back and neck
- Find a special time and place to take 10 minutes a day just to meditate and relax.
- Schedule "Me Time", and let the family know not to disturbe you.  Try a warm relaxing bath
- Take time out of your busy schedule to pursue a hobby you enjoy (i.e. scrapbooking, gardening)
- Laugh, try to see the humor in daily living.  95% of the time, good humor can only help the situation

Tips for your Medical Health
- See your health care provider for help with losing weight and to discuss weight management
- Quit Smoking, schedule an appointment with your provider to discuss the many resources they have available to help you. DON'T GIVE UP!
- Schedule you yearly physical and any recommended tests (i.e. Mammogram, Bone Density tests)
- Don't ignore warning signs for cancer or other serious medical issues.  If something is unusual, get it checked out. 

Influenza: Flu Basics

Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year.

The 2011-2012 flu vaccine will protect against the three influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season. This includes an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus, and an influenza B virus.