Flu prevention tips from Scottsdale Healthcare

Two types of flu are expected this year, seasonal flu and H1N1 flu. Scottsdale Healthcare is in close contact with local and federal health agencies, monitoring daily developments to protect its patients and help prepare the community with flu prevention information.

HOSPITAL VISITORS: PLEASE HELP PROTECT PATIENTS FROM THE FLU. IF YOU HAVE COLD OR FLU SYMPTOMS, PLEASE DO NOT VISIT PATIENTS IN OUR HOSPITALS. SCOTTSDALE HEALTHCARE IS COMMITTED TO MAINTAINING THE SAFETY OF THOSE IN OUR CARE.

You can help protect yourself and others, as well as be prepared in case loved ones catch the flu by taking the following steps:

  • Get your seasonal flu shot. Seasonal flu immunization clinic dates and details will be announced in the media. Also watch for information on a separate H1N1 vaccine, which is still in development.
  • Practice good hand hygiene. Wash your hands after covering a cough or sneeze or blowing your nose. Scrub with soap at least 15 seconds or rub hands together with alcohol-based hand gel until the gel dries.
  • Try to cough or sneeze into a tissue, or cough into your sleeve. Remember to throw the tissue away and wash your hands.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. If you touch something contaminated with germs, then touch your eyes, nose or mouth, the germs may spread.
  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating healthy, getting plenty of exercise and sleep, managing stress and staying hydrated can help keep your immune system strong.
  • Stay home if you are ill. This will help protect others from getting sick, as well as help you recover.
  • Establish back-up child care plans. Arrange in advance to have someone available to care for children if needed cue to provider illness or facility closings.
  • Monitor your vacation time. Make sure you have enough time in your vacation time bank in case you become ill or have to stay home to care for sick family members.


    Frequently updated information on H1N1 flu can be found at:

    Maricopa County Department of Public Health Swine Flu Hotline (English and Spanish): 602-263-8856 or 800-352-3792

    Maricopa County Department of Public Health

    US Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC)

    Arizona Department of Health Services