There’s no 100 per cent foolproof way of preventing colds and flu, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk of getting either type of virus.
By Hilary Pereira
Get more vitamin D
There’s plenty of controversy around the idea of taking vitamin C to stave off a cold, but there is some evidence to suggest that getting enough vitamin D can help
Take regular exercise
Keeping as fit and healthy as possible will boost your immune system, giving you a better chance of avoiding viral infection.
Wash your hands
The vast majority of viruses are picked up through direct contact, for example by touching a contaminated surface, then touching your own nose or eyes.
Avoid close contact with people with symptoms
It’s hard to avoid contact with infected people, especially if you have to travel on packed public transport, but it can help if you try
Avoid touching your eyes and nose
Did you know you could catch a virus through your eyes?
Keep your nose warm!
Wearing a scarf over your nose to keep your nasal lining warm could help prevent infection.
Keep an anti-viral hand sanitiser on you
Anti-bacterial hand gels have been available for a number of years, but now you can also buy anti-viral products that you can apply frequently throu
Try a nasal spray
Ask your pharmacist about anti-viral nasal sprays. They coat the lining of the nose making it more resistant to picking up viruses.
Reduce your stress levels
Stress can impair the immune system, making us more vulnerable to picking up a virus, so it can help to reduce your stress levels in any way you can.
Have the flu jab
If you’re eligible to get the seasonal flu jab free on the NHS (if, for example, you have a chronic long-term illness or a compromised immune system, if you’re
