Winter is coming around the corner, and that means cold and flu season is here. On average, adults have about 2-3 colds per year, and children may have more. The common cold can be a pain, but there are ways to prevent it and keep you and your family healthy.
Symptoms of the common cold may include:
Common cold symptoms can come suddenly, since most patients are asymptomatic once they have an initial cold. Here is a list of the initial symptoms to look for:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sore throat
- Low-grade fever
- Slight body aches or headache
Although there is no vaccine for the common cold, there are many ways to keep yourself healthy:
Thoroughly wash your hands
Make sure to clean your hands with warm water and soap. If you’re not around a sink, trying using a hand sanitizer gel.
Disinfect your home when family members are sick
Keeping your home clean with disinfectant spray and wipes will keep visitors everyone else in your home safe from cold germs.
Sneeze and cough into tissues
Sometimes coughing into your elbow isn’t enough. Keep tissues handy in your house and car can help contain your germs rather then have them spreading around you.
Don’t share cups or utensils with those who are sick
If someone in your home is sick, make sure they are either using disposable cups or clearly mark their glass they use. This is a very easy way to keep germs away from those who aren’t sick.
Eat well and get a good sleep
Taking care of yourself and managing stress can keep you happy and healthy. Drink lots of water and get to bed early each night if you can.
Some people are more prone to getting a cold, but it is always important to try and prevent yourself. Those at risk include:
Children 6 and under are more susceptible to getting sick, especially if they are in daycare or a setting with many other kids.
Weakened Immune System
Those with a chronic illness or another issue that weakens your immune system will make it harder to fight off germs.
You are more likely to get a cold if you are inhaling cigarette smoke.
Airplanes, buses, and trains are full of many people – and many germs. Public transportation can increase the likelihood of catching a cold.