While the coronavirus is making the headlines, it is influenza that affects far more people in the United States.

Locally, schools on both sides of the Ohio River have been closed for a couple of days so that schools could be cleaned and disinfected.

In Ohio, the flu season can begin as early as October and last until March, although the flu can strike at any time of the year.

The Ohio Department of Health said that people who get the flu usually recover in one to two weeks, but the flu can be deadly. It estimates every year, around 200,000 Americans are hospitalized with the flu and there are more than 20,000 flu related deaths, many of which could have been prevented with a flu vaccine. Flu shots are designed to prevent three common types of flu and is recommended for every one over the age of six months.

Another simple way to avoid the flu is things we were all taught in elementary school: wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, don’t touch your eyes or mouth with your fingers, and if you have to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth.

Common courtesy may be the simple thing to keep you out of the doctor’s office.