Wash hands often to prevent colds and influenza

The cold and flu season is upon us. One of the easiest ways to prevent the common cold and flu is by washing hands thoroughly and often.

One of the most frequent ways people catch colds is by rubbing or touching their nose, mouth, or eyes after their hands have been contaminated with the cold virus. Cold and flu viruses can spread by personal contact and also by touching objects and surfaces, such as doorknobs, desktops and grocery cart handles that were last handled by someone who has the virus. Flu viruses also can spread without contact, such as when an infected person coughs while standing nearby in line at the supermarket. More serious diseases, such as hepatitis A, meningitis and infectious diarrhea, can easily be prevented if people make a habit of washing their hands.

For example, a study of 305 Detroit school children found that youngsters who washed their hands four times a day had 24 percent fewer sick days because of respiratory illness and 51 percent fewer days lost because of stomach upset. Teachers asked these children to wash their hands on arrival, before lunch, after recess, and before leaving for the day.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified common ways in which disease-causing germs are transmitted by contaminated hands. Germs that cause colds, eye infections and other illnesses are spread to hands by sneezing, coughing, rubbing the eyes. They are then transferred to others through direct contact or through food handled by the infected person.

Wash hands with warm soapy water, rubbing hands together for at least 20 seconds. Rinse well to flush away germs. Dry with a paper towel. A used cloth towel can harbor germs. Especially during the winter, it's a good idea to keep paper towels in the bathroom for family and guests to use.

Most cold and flu viruses are spread by direct contact. Someone who has the flu sneezes onto his hand, and then touches the telephone, a doorknob, or a drinking glass. The germs can live for hours -- in some cases weeks -- only to be picked up by the next person who touches the same object. So wash hands often.

It is not necessary to use antibacterial soap. In fact, the American Academy of Microbiology warns against the widespread use of anti-microbial products, because they are likely to lead to the development of more resistant bacteria.

When hand washing isn't possible -- such as during a shopping trip or when eating in the car --an alcohol based sanitizer destroys most of the germs. Carry a sample size container in a purse or in the car for a quick hand cleansing.

Other ways to help avoid getting a cold or the flu include eating a variety of healthful foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables. Drink fluid to stay hydrated, but avoid too much coffee, tea and colas, which have a dehydrating effect. Get adequate rest to better the chances that your immune system will be able to fight infection.

If you come down with a cold or the flu, stay home, so as not to infect others.