The flu is very contagious and can quickly spread to others; this is more likely to occur during the first five days of symptomatic illness. Flu is passed on by microbes from coughs and sneezes. The virus spreads when the expectorated droplets attach onto nearby surfaces or people. Coughing or sneezing directly into your hands means that your hands carry viral droplets which can spread the illness, as well. Microbes can survive on untreated hands for 24 hours. Washing one's hands regularly is the most effective method of preventing the flu from spreading.

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