Flu mask: Should I wear one?

Your risk of serious illness from flu, as well as the risk to people around you, can affect your decision about wearing a face mask. People who have a higher risk of serious illness or complications may choose to take more precautions.

Face masks can help protect against the flu. Flu viruses can spread through the air when someone with the infection breathes, coughs, sneezes or talks. You can inhale the particles. Or you can pick up the virus from touching an object, such as a computer keyboard, and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

People who are diagnosed with flu or think they have it can limit the spread of the illness by wearing a face mask.

You may choose to wear a face mask during flu season when you spend time in places that are crowded or have poor airflow. A face mask also may help you avoid illness when you're among people who have come together from a variety of places. Examples include using public transportation or going to events such as conferences.

Other ways to protect against getting the flu include:

• Get vaccinated. Seasonal flu vaccines are recommended for everyone age 6 months or older who doesn't have a medical reason to avoid the vaccine.
• Wash your hands. Use soap and water if you can, and wash for at least 20 seconds. Or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Don't touch your face. Your eyes, nose and mouth are places where germs can get into the body.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow. Then wash your hands.
• Clean surfaces. Regularly clean surfaces that people often touch to help prevent the spread of infection.
• Avoid crowds. Flu can spread more readily in crowded, closed spaces. When flu is spreading, try to keep space between yourself and others while indoors, especially in areas with poor airflow.