Take the flu quiz

"Planes are a great respiratory virus mixing bowl," said Michael Osterholm. "You enhance your risk there."

Subtract 5 points

Smoking is an absolute risk factor for all respiratory illnesses because of the damage that occurs to the lungs.

Subtract 10 points

Kids are major carriers. Younger ones can be contagious for more than a week after they've been infected.

Subtract 10 points

Once you're in a household where somebody has the flu, you may not get sick, but you're at a high risk.

Osterholm said he knew of no data to support the idea that adequate sleep helps prevent influenza.

Add 1 point

"If it's 20 below and you leave your house with wet hair, good luck. But it has nothing to do with infectious diseases."

Subtract 1 point

Not being exposed to large numbers of people, some of whom may be sick, "surely reduces your risk."

Once flu starts to take off in an area, it doesn't matter where you are. Still, flu likes cold and dry weather.

Subtract 3 points

In young children who haven't had the flu, the virus is more likely to be transmitted to them and through them.

Subtract 8 points

Regular exercise is good for overall health, but it's "not a flu fighter," Osterholm said.

It has not been clearly demonstrated to prevent onset of the flu.

Add 1 point

The flu virus dies quickly in the environment, so risk of contracting it by touching surfaces is low.

Subtract 2 points

Dorm residents consist of a younger population that has a higher risk for flu.

"It may make you feel better," said Osterholm, "but it doesn't do anything to prevent or reduce your illness."

Add 1 point

"I'm very high on hand washing," Osterholm said, but it's been "oversold" as a flu prevention tool.

Add 4 points

Age and other variables can affect how effective the shot is. Still, Osterholm and other public health leaders agree that the flu vaccine is the best prevention tool available.

Bummer. Your chances of getting the flu are high.

Not bad, but you'd better take caution. You may be at risk for the flu.

Relax. Your chance of flu is fairly low.

Remember, even if you're doing all the right things to dodge the flu, you still might catch this cunning virus.