Cold & Flu Prevention Tips

Cold and flu share many similarities, but they are two distinct conditions. The American Academy of Family Physicians says more than 200 viruses cause colds, but few viruses cause the flu. This makes it easier to manufacture flu shots and not cold vaccinations. These viruses share many of the same symptoms like fevers, stuffy noses, cough, muscle aches and headaches. Other flu symptoms include chills and sweats, loss of appetite, fatigue and nausea. Cold symptoms develop slowly, while flu symptoms develop quickly. Because the spread of these conditions is the same, cold and flu prevention tips are the same.

Practice Good Hygiene

• Wash hands for at least a minute to prevent the spread of cold and flu viruses. The University of Pennsylvania Office of Health Education says germs live for a few hours or a few weeks, so wipe telephones, keyboards and any surface that multiple people touch. Use a tissue to muffle coughs and sneezes instead of hands to prevent person-to-person transmission. Turn away from people if tissue is unavailable. Don't touch eyes, nose or mouth to avoid getting a cold. Children in school and people who work in offices often spread colds and flu, so in addition to wiping surfaces, get fresh air because germs circulate in dry, crowded rooms.

Get Annual Flu Shot

• The American Academy of Family Physicians says the best flu prevention is getting a flu vaccination. Most vaccinations are available in fall, around October or November, and people can get vaccines as late as January. Given as a shot or nasal spray, these vaccines work by exposing the body to flu virus, helping the body build up antibodies to it. From 6 months old people can get flu shots, and they are recommended for elderly people or those suffering from respiratory conditions and other health problems. Some people still get the flu, but cases are milder.

Eat Healthy Foods and Keep Hydrated

• The Office of Health Education says keeping the body hydrated and eating a healthy diet prevents colds and flu. Eat dark green, red and yellow fruits and vegetables because they contain phytochemicals, natural plant chemicals that work like vitamins. Eat plain, low-fat yogurt because the bacteria in yogurt builds the immune system. Drinking water flushes toxins out the body, so aim for eight glasses of water a day. Avoid alcohol because these beverages dehydrate the body and heavy drinking hampers the liver's ability to filter germs out of the body.