With flu season right around the corner, it is important to do your best to stay healthy now, so you can avoid catching the influenza virus when it more heavily circulates.

While influenza viruses circulate year-round, most of the flu activity peaks between December and February, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A study published by the agency found about 8% of the U.S. population gets sick from the flu each season, with children younger than 18 more than twice as likely to develop a flu infection.

Start getting into the habit of following these tips from the CDC so you’ll be better equipped to prevent the flu when it becomes more rampant:

• Wash your hands frequently, especially before you eat, after you blow your nose or cough, or after coming in contact with others who are sick.

• Don’t go to work or send your child to school when sick, if possible. You run the risk of spreading sickness to your co-workers or your children’s classmates and their families.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.

• Make sure to get enough sleep.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

• Practice good health habits such as getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious food.

• Consider getting a flu shot.