Habits to Help Prevent Colds and Flu

As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. And when it comes to colds and flu, this couldn't be truer. With each passing year, we come face-to-face with new strains of the virus, making it critical that we take all necessary precautions to help prevent their spread. Here are some simple yet effective habits that can help reduce your risk of getting sick during cold and flu season.


1. Practice good hand hygiene - Regularly washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can help kill germs and viruses on your skin.

2. Cover your nose and mouth - When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue or cover your mouth with your elbow to help stop the spread of germs in the air.

3. Avoid touching your face - Touching your eyes, nose or mouth can introduce germs into your body.

4. Stay home when you're sick - This may sound like common sense, but many people still try to tough it out and go to work or school while they're contagious.

5. Keep your surroundings clean - Clean surfaces that are touched often such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops regularly.

6. Get enough sleep - A good night's sleep can help boost your immune system and make it more effective at fighting off infections.

7. Eat healthily - Getting proper nutrition is important for maintaining a healthy immune system.

8. Exercise regularly - Physical activity helps increase blood flow and promote overall health - including the immune system.

9. Manage stress - High levels of stress can have a negative impact on your immune system, so find ways to manage and reduce stress levels.


By incorporating these habits into your daily routine, you can help keep yourself and those around you healthy during cold and flu season. Remember, prevention is key, and an ounce of prevention is worth avoiding a week or two of feeling terrible.