Bergen County Department of Health Services offers the following information to help ward off cold and flu viruses, as well as tips for recovering when colds and flu hit.
Wash your hands often with soap and water. Handwashing removes viruses and reduces the chance of spreading cold and flu viruses.
Avoid close contact with someone who has a cold. Sneezing spreads cold viruses. A person who has a cold can spread viruses on their hands to the eyes, nose and hands of someone who is well.
Used tissues carry cold and flu viruses. Toss them in the trash as soon as possible. When a family member has a cold, keep kitchen and bathroom countertops extra clean. Thoroughly wash dishes, glasses and eating utensils.
Heating systems dry the nasal passages, which can increase the chances of getting a cold. Take steps to reduce dry indoor air. If possible, open a window.
Colds and other respiratory illnesses strike smokers more often than nonsmokers.
Tips for avoiding colds are also effective in warding off flu. If you do come down with influenza, take the following steps for a speedier recovery. Get generous amounts of rest – as much as 12 hours or more per night. Keep mucus thin and easy to clear by drinking plenty of fluids. Follow your doctor’s instructions and product label directions when taking aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen for headache, muscle aches and fever. Nasal congestion and sore throat can be temporarily relieved by taking over-the-counter cold medications. Ask your doctor whether prescription-only medications for relief of flu symptoms can help you. Children younger than 16 should never be given aspirin without the advice of a doctor. Do not give cold medications to children under 6.
For more information on colds and flu, go to Health Topics: Influenza.
