How to Prepare for the Cold Season in Order to Prevent Illnesses?

Recent studies show that the average person catches cold three times a year, and younger children catch even more. Although there are is no cure for the common cold and flu, preventive measures can be taken nonetheless. Let us take a closer look at some of these measures. Washing hands: Washing hands frequently with warm water and soap can avoid catching cold or flu. When soap and water are not available, one can use antibacterial alcohol-based foams and gels instead. Disinfection of a person’s home can kill cold viruses almost completely, greatly decreasing the chances of catching colds. Adding three to five percent bleach in water and spraying it in the bathroom and kitchen can easily kill these viruses. Individuals like health care workers staying in high-risk locations such as long-term care facilities should be subjected to flu vaccination. This will reduce the chances of catching colds. Vaccines are meant to kill viruses. However, they are not 100 percent effective all the time. The vaccine takes a fortnight to become fully effective once it has been taken, therefore one must be prepared long before the cold season begins.