January 1st, 2008 by Domenic Thomas, M.S.O.M., L.Ac.
One of the easiest ways to prevent colds and flu is to wash your hands regularly. With all the recent press about staph infections and other virulent pathogens, hand washing remains as the single most important factor in spreading these diseases. It is especially important for people to wash their hands after going to the bathroom because of the propensity for germs to live in this area of the home or office.
Most of the cold and flu viruses are passed through human-to-human contact and can be prevented with simple sanitary practices. It is especially important for those who work in high traffic environments such as teachers and physicians to pay attention to their personal hygienic habits. Avoiding contact with your eyes and nose is essential as cold and flu viruses enter the body through these areas.
Most people are contagious for a day prior to becoming symptomatic and for the first 2-3 days of a cold. Avoiding public places while symptomatic is very important. Getting plenty of rest, exercise and a healthy diet will enhance the effectiveness of your immune system, but preventing contact in the first place is your best line of defense.
One of the easiest ways to prevent colds and flu is to wash your hands regularly. With all the recent press about staph infections and other virulent pathogens, hand washing remains as the single most important factor in spreading these diseases. It is especially important for people to wash their hands after going to the bathroom because of the propensity for germs to live in this area of the home or office.
Most of the cold and flu viruses are passed through human-to-human contact and can be prevented with simple sanitary practices. It is especially important for those who work in high traffic environments such as teachers and physicians to pay attention to their personal hygienic habits. Avoiding contact with your eyes and nose is essential as cold and flu viruses enter the body through these areas.
Most people are contagious for a day prior to becoming symptomatic and for the first 2-3 days of a cold. Avoiding public places while symptomatic is very important. Getting plenty of rest, exercise and a healthy diet will enhance the effectiveness of your immune system, but preventing contact in the first place is your best line of defense.
