Colds and influenza are caused by viruses, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers flu to be a serious contagious disease. Children are among those at high risk for complications from flu.
Get Your Flu Shot
The CDC recommends immunization for all children older than 6 months. Healthy children older than 2 might qualify for the FluMist nasal spray vaccine.
Wash Your Hands
The most important thing you can do to prevent disease spread is wash your hands with soap and water, the CDC says. If soap and clean water are not available, use an alcohol-based product.
Cover Coughs and Sneezes
Viruses spread mainly by droplets, so cover your cough or sneeze with your arm or elbow, not your hand. Children can learn very early to do this.
Don't Touch Your Face
Keep your hands off your face. Germs enter your body through your eyes, nose and mouth.
Stay Home if You Are Sick
Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone so you don't infect others.
