We shared Laura's story with the hope that people may realise that the flu kills.

Sadly, as we are in the grips of the current flu season, I have observed the following things in a period of two weeks that has made me feel I need to speak out once again.

Firstly, I was in a local cafe ordering lunch and the staff member was sniffling and she proceeded to wipe her nose on the back of her hand, then proceeded to finish making her sandwich without washing her hands.

That was in a cafe in Moruya.

Today, I went shopping in Batemans Bay and overheard two staff members, one of which was a manager, talking about a staff member who had been off work with the flu: “For God’s sake! It’s only the flu; it won’t kill you. I still came to work and bought my child with me for the day."

With that, I left the store –  I won’t return.

How did I hear so much?

I was standing in line and these two staff members were quite openly discussing this right next to me.

I was horrified.

Please people: don’t be so complacent when it comes to this illness because it really does take lives.

Stay home go to the doctor and maintain hygiene.

Yes, some may say I won’t get paid, but money is nothing when you lose a loved one. 

According to NSW Health, if you have the flu, or are around someone who does, it’s important to take the following steps;

• Wash your hands regularly with soap and running water;

• Turn away from others and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough and sneeze; 

• Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or have a fever;

• Stay at home if you are sick and keep sick children at home from school and other activities.