Tips to prevent common cold
The common cold is arguably most common illness in human. Colds are caused by viral infections. Over 200 different viruses can cause cold symptoms of varying severity. Viruses that cause colds are spread from person to person through tiny droplets of mucus that enter the air from the nasal passages of infected persons and are inhaled by others. Colds can also be spread by touching surfaces that have been contaminated by contact with infected persons and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
While it is impossible to completely prevent the spread of colds, there are tips you can take to reduce your and your family's chances of becoming infected with a virus that causes colds:
Tip 1: Hand washing
This is probably the single best measure to prevent transmission of colds. Frequent hand washing can destroy viruses that you have acquired from touching surfaces used by other people. When you wash your hands, do it thoroughly. Use soap and water and scrub for a minimum of 20 seconds. When you're not near a sink, a hand sanitizer that’s at least 60% alcohol is a good substitute. Teach your children the importance of hand washing too.
Tip 2: Cover Your Nose and Mouth
Most of us were raised to cover our mouths and noses with our hands when we sneezed or coughed. Instead, use a tissue, that way, the cold germs won't get onto your hands and spread.
Tip 3: Go Disposable
Colds can be spread by shared towels and cups in the bathroom. When someone in the house is sick, consider switching to paper products for a week. Disposable cups can be thrown away after each use and prevent accidental spread of the virus from sharing of cups or glasses. This is particularly important if you have young children who may try to drink from mother’s cups.
Tip 4: Keep household surfaces clean
Door knobs, drawer pulls, keyboards, light switches, telephones, remote controls, countertops, and sinks can all harbor viruses for hours after their use by an infected person. Wipe these surfaces frequently with soap and water or a disinfectant solution.
Tip 5: Maintain a healthy lifestyle
While there isn't direct evidence to show that eating well or exercising can prevent colds, maintenance of a healthy lifestyle, with adequate sleep good nutrition and physical exercise can help ensure that your immune system is in good condition and ready to fight infection if it occurs.
Source: Michael W. Smith,
Medicine net.com, Web MD
