Advice from Dear Webby
Afraid of the Flu

Sign me
Want to be friendly but healthy

Dear Friendly and Healthy

No one wants to get sick but some of us are more cautious than others. That's a good thing or the whole country would be coughing and sneezing.

"They" tell us to stay away from crowds. Will "they" do the shopping? They tell us to wash our hands whenever possible. We do that. To get enough rest and drink fluids - easy for them to say. To cover our mouths when we sneeze and to stay away from others if we think we're getting something.

Those are all common sense and recommended items, but there are some people out there that still don't get it. Don't you hate to have a waitress or clerk say "I think I'm getting the flu" or have a friend say "I just can't kick this bug" after just greeting you with a big hug and kiss.

All we can do is our best. At home when someone has had the flu or a virus I go around spraying phones, railings and other contact spots. I make them use the television remote control in a plastic bag. Webby becomes very unpopular.

Make sure to use the dishwasher, and have everyone use his or her own glass. But in the end if the bug wants you the bug will get you. But don't let it without a fight.

Try wearing gloves, and/or telling people not to get to close because you're afraid you're getting a virus and don't want to make them sick. (Hmmm maybe that is what the clerk was doing).

At the handshake of peace in church just nod and mouth a greeting or point to your throat or chest. They should get the idea and stay away. (Don't point to your head as if you have a headache. They may get confused and think you're crazy!) I hear some places in California have stopped the custom till the virus is over.

Could the media be building this up to be worse than it is? No, not the media. They never exaggerate! (Webby must have a fever to even think that)

Regardless, don't let this ruin your activities. You probably won't get the flu and if you do a couple days in bed might be restful. Sounds good to Webby.

Next year get that flu shot! It won't take care of all the germs but every little bug counts.

Stay friendly and healthy

Good luck,