Avoid Getting a Bad Cold or Flu

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Carol A. Wood, BS, RN, NHA, CFN, CHA

President/CEO

Ramona Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice

 

Question: How can I avoid getting a bad cold or the flu?

Answer: As described by our Medical Director in 2010, viral infections, including the common cold and the flu, occur when viral particles come in contact with your eyes, mouth, nose, or lungs. This usually occurs through contact with droplets in the air which are created when infected people cough or sneeze. In addition to direct contact with airborne droplets, infections can be transmitted by the hands. When infected hands come in contact with the mouth, nose or eyes, you greatly increase the risk of infection by spreading the viral particles to areas where they can gain entrance into your body.

Although the flu shot protects against the three most severe strains of the flu each season, it offers no immunity against the common cold or the myriad of other viral illnesses we encounter each winter. Antibiotics are not effective against colds or most viral illnesses; but there are several practical things you can do to reduce your risk of catching a cold or the flu.

There are numerous cold remedies that people take to treat colds and the flu including Vitamin C, Zinc and herbal products such as Echinacea. These products have been studied extensively but it remains unclear as to whether or not they are effective in treating colds or the flu. In addition to these remedies, there are many over the counter products available to provide relief of symptoms such as body aches, fever and nasal congestion. Because many of these products may interact with prescription medications or produce unwanted side effects, I suggest you talk with your doctor to decide which products are safe to use.

Here are some very effective strategies you can use to decrease the chances of contracting or spreading viral illnesses:

• Use tissue to cover your face when sneezing
• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Use hand sanitizer often during flu season
• Avoid hand to nose, mouth, or eye contact
• Avoid contact with people who are infected
• Get plenty of rest, exercise, and good nutrition to maintain a healthy immune system

If you need help with any general health related issues please contact our HELP line at 1-888-983-5337; or visit us on the web at www.help4elders.info.