Preventing Flu and Colds

What causes Flu and Colds?
Flu (influenza) and colds are caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. These viruses usually spread through the air from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. You can stop influenza by getting vaccinated. Your flu vaccine will help protect you and others from getting the flu. The best time to be vaccinated for flu is October or November.

What can you do to prevent the spread of flu and colds?
Use good health habits like:

Cover your cough.
Wash your hands frequently.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Practice healthy habits by getting plenty of rest, eating healthy and exercising.
If you are ill, coughing or have a fever, stay home and away from other people.

So what will help?

Get vaccinated.
An antibiotic cannot kill a virus and will not make your cold or flu go away. Your body will fight a cold on its own. Colds can last longer than two weeks.
Fluids and plenty of rest is the best defense.

Talk with your doctor and find out when antibiotics work and when they don't. The best care is the right care.

Last Updated: Sep 27, 2006 2:03 PM