It’s that time of year again where it’s okay to be an extreme germophobe; unfortunately, it’s flu season.

According to Michelle Cortez, a writer for Bloomberg, “the flu is causing one in 10 American deaths,” and is expected to only climb up from here. It is recognized that this year’s epidemic may be killing 4,000 people every week.

Although catching the flu may seem inevitable, there are ways we can keep healthy and prevent it from spreading.

Often people mistake a common cold for the flu. Ways they differ is that the flu is much more severe and can include fever, vomiting, aches/pains, as well as fatigue.

One of the best solutions to prevent getting the flu would be to get the flu vaccine.

Fullerton College Health Center offers the vaccine to students who have paid their health service fees. You can also visit any drug store near you or check with your local healthcare provider. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone ages six months and older get an annual flu vaccine.

According to the Cold and Flu prevention pamphlet provided by the student health center located in building 1200, Room 1204, some ways to prevent the flu are to clean your hands often with soap and warm water as well as keeping your kitchens, bathrooms, and toys clean. It is encouraged to avoid crowds during the peak of flu season.

Limit the sharing of food and drinks with anyone to decrease the chances of them catching the flu. During this time be sure to drink lots of water, get enough sleep, and keeping stress levels under control.

“I am always extra careful around flu season by drinking those “Emergen-C” drinks to give myself lots of vitamin C so hopefully I won’t get sick,” said Caroline Grupp, Communications major. “If my friends are super sick, I will try to not make physical contact with them.”

If you are feeling any signs of sickness, it is very important to rest and take care of your body before it develops into the flu. Visit the Fullerton College Health Center for more tips.