Discovery Health:

• Get a flu shot, especially if you are over 50, regularly come in contact with many people, or have a chronic illness
• If you have children in daycare, ask their pediatrician about immunization. A recent study reported a 42% decrease in infections among children who were immunized
• Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap for 15 to 30 seconds
• Try to avoid touching your face, especially your eyes and nose
• Get your RDA of vitamins and minerals to strengthen your immune system
• Don't smoke. Smoking damages the hairlike structures that line the nose and airways and catch viruses before they enter your system
• Don't use handkerchiefs. Use disposable tissues to reduce spread of infection
• Reduce your stress levels. Stress can compromise the immune system
• Get enough sleep - seven to nine hours a night
• Reduce your alcohol intake. Even regular moderate use of alcohol can hurt your chances of fighting off the flu