The common cold is actually caused by over 200 different viruses, according to Medline Plus, and in America there are over a billion colds each year. Young children are particularly vulnerable, with kids averaging about 3 to 8 colds yearly. While not a serious disease, colds can cause sufferers a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, headaches and mild fever for up to ten days. Prevention involves reducing exposure to colds and boosting the immune system's ability to fight them off.
Step 1
Wash hands frequently. Hand washing should occur anytime hands come in contact with places where cold viruses might lurk and before hands touch the face for any reason. This includes washing before eating or preparing meals or snacks; after wiping the nose; and after physical contact with other people. Washing hands immediately after leaving a crowded subway or when kids get out of day care can reduce exposure to germs.
Step 2
Use hand sanitizers when washing facilities are unavailable. Hand sanitizers are available as gels or wipes and can kill 99.99 percent of germs according to Medline Plus. These products use alcohol to kill germs.
Step 3
Disinfect anything in the home that is frequently touched. Doorknobs, sink handles, phone receivers, countertops and children's toys should be disinfected with an EPA-approved antibacterial disinfectant.
Step 4
Eat garlic or take a garlic supplement daily. A 2001 study at the Garlic Centre in East Sussex, England found that daily garlic intake cut the risk of catching a cold in half during the midwinter period when colds are most prevalent.
Step 5
Get adequate sleep. When you don't sleep well, the immune system functions less efficiently. Most adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night, and children need much more. Depending on the specific age, toddlers and young children may need up to 10 or 11 hours of sleep a night. Consult your child's pediatrician to determine the proper amount of sleep he needs to function best and keep healthy.
Step 6
Eat nutritious meals. Aside from sleep, the immune system also needs healthy food to continue working properly. A variety of vegetables and fruit in the diet can ensure that the immune system has the vitamins and minerals it needs to fight off colds. High levels of fat, sugar and salt can throw the body off balance and lead to more frequent and longer-lasting colds.
Step 7
Use paper towels. Cloth towels can collect germs that cause colds; thus, cloth towels may transmit the germs to people who use them. Use disposable paper tissue instead of handkerchiefs and paper napkins instead of cloth napkins to prevent the spread of colds.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Hand sanitizer
- Antibacterial disinfectant cleaner
- Garlic
- Fruit and vegetables
- Paper towels, tissue and napkins
