It is that time of year again. Colds. Flu. Illness.

There are three important actions to protect against the flu and other illnesses, along with protecting those around you.

Get Vaccinated. Everyone six months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every season, especially people at high risk.

Preventive Action. Take actions every day to help stop the spread of germs. Wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, practice good health habits, and, most importantly, go home and/or stay home when you are sick.

Treatment. See a healthcare provider and stay home until you are better. The recommendation from the CDC is 24 hours after your fever is gone.

The National Life Health and Wellness Center has the flu vaccine for employees on or visiting the Montpelier campus. For all other employees, you can take your medical card to a pharmacy that offers the flu vaccine and ask them to bill it to the insurance company as a preventive visit.