As colder weather sets in, so does cold and flu season. Colds and flu make millions of Americans miserable every year, leading to more doctor visits and missed school and work. While there is no cure for a cold or the flu, there are plenty of steps you can take to prevent infection:
Get a flu shot: The flu vaccine is the single best way to protect yourself from flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends getting your flu shot annually.
Wash your hands: Infectious diseases can easily spread through direct contact with people and contaminated surfaces. Wash your hands often with soap and water to eliminate germs and prevent them from spreading to others.
Cover your cough or sneeze: Use a tissue or the crook of your arm to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. After using a tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands.
Don’t touch your face: Germs can easily spread when you touch a contaminated surface and then touch your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Clean and disinfect: Use cleaning and disinfecting products on surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs including doorknobs, light switches, remote controls, and your phone.
Practice healthy habits: Drinking plenty of water, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep and exercise can strengthen your immune system so you can better fight germs.
