Can colds be prevented?
Many colds, particularly those caused by rhinoviruses, are spread by direct contact with mucous membranes and secretions. Colds are also spread by droplets in the air, caused by coughing or sneezing. Teaching your child to wash his or her hands frequently and to cover his or her mouth when coughing or sneezing is probably the best way to help prevent colds. Dietary supplements such as zinc, vitamin C, and echinacea don’t appear to have much effect on treatment and prevention of colds. However, the research is unclear.
Is the flu dangerous?
It can be. Most people get over the flu on their own, without any lasting problems. But some people need to go to the hospital because of the flu. And some people even die from it. This is because the flu can cause a serious lung infection called pneumonia. That's why it's important to keep from getting the flu in the first place.
How can I protect myself from the flu? — You can:
Many colds, particularly those caused by rhinoviruses, are spread by direct contact with mucous membranes and secretions. Colds are also spread by droplets in the air, caused by coughing or sneezing. Teaching your child to wash his or her hands frequently and to cover his or her mouth when coughing or sneezing is probably the best way to help prevent colds. Dietary supplements such as zinc, vitamin C, and echinacea don’t appear to have much effect on treatment and prevention of colds. However, the research is unclear.
Is the flu dangerous?
It can be. Most people get over the flu on their own, without any lasting problems. But some people need to go to the hospital because of the flu. And some people even die from it. This is because the flu can cause a serious lung infection called pneumonia. That's why it's important to keep from getting the flu in the first place.
How can I protect myself from the flu? — You can:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use alcohol hand rubs
- Stay away from people you know are sick
- Get the flu vaccine every year