Cold and flu season can be taxing, particularly if you have young children or are elderly. These are the two groups most affected by illness, and are most likely to develop complications from the cold or flu. While many people believe that they are safe from cold and flu germs as long as they avoid people who are visibly ill, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that some bacteria and viruses that cause colds and influenza can live on hard surfaces like counters and telephones for up to two hours. While it is not possible to avoid all germs, there are ways to reduce your risk of infection.
Eat a Nutritious Diet
The American Dietetic Association reports that eating a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables is one way to boost immunity. The CDC emphasizes the importance of drinking plenty of water to help the immune system function properly.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Seven to eight hours of sleep each night is ideal. Without sufficient sleep, the body has trouble fighting off disease. The American Dietetic Association recommends sufficient sleep as an important component of fighting infection. The CDC recommends maintaining an active lifestyle and adding moderate exercise to your day to boost immune function and help your body fight the cold and flu.
Stay Germ-Free
Wash your hands frequently throughout the day. The CDC recommends washing your hands before and after food preparation and eating, before and after caring for someone who is ill and after you blow your nose, cough or sneeze. Cover your mouth and nose whenever you cough or sneeze, to protect others from potential germs.
Vaccinate
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, up to 20 percent of Americans will develop the flu each year. While the CDC recommends the flu vaccine for anyone who wants it, some groups should definitely consider it. They include the elderly and children younger than four (but over 6 months), women who are expecting and people who work in health care related fields. Finally, anyone that has a preexisting heart, lung or immune system disease should speak with her doctor about receiving the flu vaccine.
