As flu season comes to an end, it’s easy to relax—but staying healthy is important all year. Even when the flu goes away, other illnesses like colds, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), stomach bugs, and COVID-19 can still spread. Now is a great time to focus on staying healthy and stopping the spread of germs.
1. Wash Your Hands Often
Washing your hands is one of the best ways to stop germs. At United Indian Health Services (UIHS), we remind everyone to wash their hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer, especially after being in public places, before eating, and after coughing or sneezing.
2. Cover Your Coughs and Wear a Mask When Sick
If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue or your elbow. If you feel sick with a cough, fever, or sore throat, stay home if you can. If you need to go out, wear a mask to help protect others. UIHS provides information on how to stay healthy and stop the spread of germs.
3. Keep Things Clean
Germs can spread from things we touch, like doorknobs, phones, and tables. Cleaning and disinfecting these surfaces regularly can help keep you and your family healthy. UIHS follows strict cleaning rules in all of our clinics to keep our spaces safe.
4. Stay Up to Date on Vaccines
Flu shots aren’t the only vaccines that matter. COVID-19 boosters and other routine vaccines help protect you and your family from getting sick. UIHS offers many vaccines, and you can call your local clinic or check our website to find out what’s available.
5. Be Aware of the Current Measles Situation
As of March 2025, measles cases are on the rise in several U.S. states, including California. Measles is very contagious and can cause serious health problems. The best way to protect yourself and your family is by getting the MMR vaccine, which is highly effective. UIHS offers the MMR vaccine—please contact your local clinic to schedule an appointment or check your vaccination records.
6. Get Ready for Next Flu Season
Now is a good time to think about what worked and what could be better for next flu season. At UIHS, we look at ways to improve and make it easier for our community to stay healthy. We also want to hear from you about how we can help.
7. Pay Attention to Early Signs of Illness
UIHS keeps track of sickness in the community and provides updates when needed. If you or a family member start feeling sick, reach out to your local UIHS provider for advice on what to do next.
8. When to See a Medical Provider
Most mild illnesses can be treated at home, but sometimes you need medical care. Contact UIHS or your doctor if you have:
- A fever over 100.4°F that lasts more than three days
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain or pressure
- Feeling dizzy, confused, or unable to keep fluids down
- Symptoms that get worse after seeming to improve
- Any other serious symptoms that worry you
By making infection prevention a habit, we can keep our community healthy all year long. For health updates and more information, visit the UIHS website, follow us on social media, or contact your local clinic.