From lost wages to lost sleep, when a cold or flu strikes it can interrupt every part of your family's life. Luckily, there are some straightforward and highly effective ways to reduce your risk of exposure. Here are four things to consider as you fight the good fight against colds and the flu.
Flu Vaccines and the Myth of Antibiotics
According to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), antibiotics are not effective in treating cold and flu symptoms. The reason is simple: Antibiotics are used to kill bacteria, not the viruses responsible for colds, the flu, and bronchitis. In fact, the CDC warns that taking antibiotics unnecessarily can lead to dangerous antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. However, studies show that preventive flu vaccines—specifically flu shots—can be 70% to 90% effective in healthy people younger than the age of 65.
Cold and Flu Hygiene!
It's hard to overstress the importance of washing your hands several times a day to reduce the risk of picking up the viruses that cause colds and the flu. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are highly effective, but a thorough washing with good old soap and water also does the trick. According to the
University of Pennsylvania's Office of Health Administration, covering coughs and sneezes with your hands only ends up spreading the virus. Instead, use a disposable tissue or direct your cough or sneeze away from people in your vicinity. Finally, if someone in your family already has a cold or the flu, keep toys and surfaces clean, and have that family member use his or her own towel in the bathroom.
Get a Breath of Fresh Air During Cold and Flu Season
According to the
American Lung Association®, taking time away from dry, climate-controlled environments is especially important in preventing colds and the flu. Too much time indoors means more exposure to the germs that circulate throughout your house, especially if you have a large family. In addition, heating and air-conditioning can dry out your sinuses, making them much more hospitable to viruses. When frigid temperatures keep you indoors, regulate air moisture by
using a humidifier during those dry winter months.
Early to Bed, Early to Rise...
OK, so the jury's still out on the "wealthy" part of this old saying, but adequate sleep and healthy habits are essential to maintaining a strong immune system. Sleep deprivation can inhibit your body's natural defenses, making you much more vulnerable to cold and flu viruses (not to mention plain old grumpiness). In addition, proper diet and exercise can be important weapons in boosting your body's natural defense systems. When it's too late and you've already fallen victim to a cold or flu, proper sleep is an essential part of mobilizing your body's army of virus killers.
