Help Prevent Winter Colds

You can help keep colds away if you wash your hands often. Germs can live on anything touched by someone with a cold. So it is a good idea to wash after using the bathroom, going to a public place such as a mall or health clinic, touching an elevator button, and before eating. While you wash, count to 15 so that you wash long enough. Use warm, soapy water.

Another way to help prevent colds is to keep your hands away from your mouth, eyes, and nose. If cold germs get into these body parts, they can make you sick.

You cannot always avoid getting a cold. But living a healthy life helps keep your body strong. Living healthy includes:

• Exercising.

• Getting enough sleep.

• Not smoking.

• Eating fruits and veggies

If you get a cold, always use tissues when you cough, sneeze, or wipe your nose. Throw used tissues in the trash. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about what medicines may help. And remember, antibiotics won’t cure a cold.