The story

As reports of swine flu continue to rise in the United States and around the world, the average American is probably asking, "How should I protect myself?"

Health officials' advice is to follow common-sense precautions: Wash your hands, stay home if you're sick and listen to your local health authorities.

"Very frequent hand-washing is something that we talk about time and time again and that is an effective way to reduce transmission of disease," said Dr. Richard Besser, acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Read full article »

CNN's Mary Carter contributed to this report.

All About MexicoInfluenzaCenters for Disease Control and Prevention

Health Library