Emily Post relative offers flu etiquette

• Tweet

BETHESDA, Md., Jan. 17 (UPI) -- More than 80 percent of U.S. adults say someone with the flu should cancel obligations, but 64 percent say they should go about their business, a survey found.

As part of its "Are You That Guy?" influenza education campaign, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases is partnering with the Emily Post Institute to remind Americans to contain the flu.

"While people recognize that the flu virus spreads easily, they admit to tossing proper etiquette aside when they have the flu," Anna Post, great-great-granddaughter of Emily Post and co-author of the 18th edition of the Emily Post's Etiquette book, said in a statement.

One-third of people surveyed said they would call their doctor if they suspected the flu.

"It's important to know the symptoms of the flu so individuals can visit a doctor quickly to get properly treated before they risk spreading it to others," Dr. Susan J. Rehm, medical director at the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, said in a statement. "Every year, millions of Americans get the flu. We are all personally responsible for controlling its spread."

In the workplace, Post advises employees to tell their boss right away they need to get to the doctor.

"Say: 'I don't feel well -- I need to see a doctor,'" Post said. "I think I might have the flu."

During air travel, if you are seated next to someone with the flu, Post said it's OK to consider saying: "I can see you're not feeling well -- would you mind covering your mouth when you cough? Thanks."