As swine flu raises its ugly head once again in Kashmir valley with sixty-nine positive cases and seven deaths so far this season, Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK) on Friday advised people to take precautions to protect themselves from getting flu.“Simple precautions would help prevent the spread of flu,” said DAK President and flu expert Dr Nisar ul Hassan in a communiqué.He said covering your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and washing your hands with soap and water will keep you and people around you healthy and well.“People should avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands,” he added.“If you are down with flu, stay home for at least 24 hours after you’re symptom-free (unless you need to receive care),” Dr Nisar said. He said wearing a mask will prevent transmission of flu virus from infected person to others as well as protect caregiver from picking up an infection. Dr Nisar said people should drink plenty of fluids and take adequate sleep and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.“Swine flu, also known as H1N1 virus is a contagious viral infection of respiratory tract that spreads from person to person through the inhalation of respiratory droplets. Symptoms of flu include fever, cough, sorethroat, runny nose and bodyaches,” he said.“Elderly, children under the age of five years, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions are prone to develop serious complications from flu,” he informed.“It is not too late to get a flu shot. It can be given as long as the flu is circulating. If you haven’t yet, go get it,” suggested Dr Nisar.“If you are vulnerable to severe flu, see your doctor as soon as flu symptoms start, as early treatment with antiviral drugs can help prevent complications,” he said.(CNS)