Viral respiratory infections like the common cold have no lasting effects and usually tend to get cured by themselves in a few days. However, influenza (flu) is a serious ailment, which may require hospitalization if severe, and in some cases, may result in death as well. While the condition cannot be wholly avoided, a few simple prevention tips for cold and flu can help you reduce the chances of developing it.

• Annual flu shot
  The elderly, young, and chronically-ill patients are at a higher risk of suffering from flu-related complications. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an annual flu vaccine for all individuals who are six months and older. There are three types of shots, and selecting the right one under the guidance of your doctor helps prevent the condition. Infants younger than six months are too young to get vaccinated, and are therefore at a higher risk. To prevent infections in infants, other family members, and caregivers must get their annual flu shot.

• Frequently washing your hands
  When an infected person coughs or sneezes, the droplets comprising the virus causes the spread of cold and flu. It is airborne and can enter your mouth or nose through your hands after they have touched an infected surface. Frequently washing your hands with soap and water to eliminate the virus is an excellent prevention tip for cold and flu. If you do not have access to soap and water, use a sanitizer to clean your hands.

• Avoid contact with infected people
  Refrain from shaking hands or having physical contact with people who are sick to avoid catching the infection. Similarly, if you are sick, it is recommended that you stay home to prevent spreading the virus. While coughing or sneezing, use a tissue to cover the nose and mouth and dispose it immediately. If you do not have a tissue, sneeze or cough inside of your elbow but do not use your hands to muffle them.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle
  Taking care of your health is important to prevent infections. Being physically active, eating nutritious food, getting sufficient sleep, drinking a lot of fluids, and managing your stress levels is important. Moreover, avoid smoking and keep your allergies under control to avoid inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, which leaves you more vulnerable to such infections. Regular aerobic exercises pump your heart rate, which increases the natural virus-killing cells in your body and keeps infections at bay.

• Keep the surroundings clean
  Viruses may be found on your doorknobs, working desk, mobile phones, keys, and wallets. You must clean the surfaces that you frequently come in contact with by using sprays or liquids. This is one of the easiest prevention tips for cold and flu.

• Consume phytochemicals foods
  Natural chemicals found in plant-based foods boost the vitamins found in other food products. Consume dark red, green, and yellow fruits and vegetables to prevent cold and flu infections.