It seems most everyone has had at least a cold this winter, and the flu season has yet to reach its peak, health officials warned earlier this week.

Even if you didn’t get a flu shot, there are things people can do to protect themselves, stay healthy and prevent the spread of germs to others. Freeborn County Public Health is getting the word out with a pamphlet called &uot;Cover Your Cough.&uot; Pamphlets are being sent to some employers, schools and churches to get the word out.

The literature states that illnesses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), whooping cough and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) are easily spread by coughing or sneezing or unclean hands in crowded places where people are in close contact.

To stop the spread of germs if you’re sick, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze. Throw the used tissue into a waste basket. If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve. After coughing or sneezing, always clean your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Public Health staff say handwashing should take at least 10 to 15 seconds &045; about the time it takes to sing &uot;Happy Birthday&uot; to yourself.

You should also stay home if you’re sick (and particularly stay away from the frail or elderly). And don’t share eating utensils, drinking glasses, towels or other personal items.

To stay healthy, clean your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, if possible.

When you’re at a clinic or hospital, again cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue and dispose of the used tissue in a waste basket and clean your hands.

Minnesota and Iowa have both seen widespread flu activity this season. It’s up to all of us to do what we can to keep ourselves healthy.