Introduction
Cold and flu season can effect thousands of people. There are many ways to prevent the spread of disease and protect yourself and others from contracting it. There are many preventative methods that can be used to avoid getting sick and several precautions to take to avoid infecting others if you are ill.
Preventative Methods
Stay away from sick people. If you notice someone is coughing, sneezing or seems to have a fever, avoid coming into contact with them. Some types of infectious diseases can be transferred through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes or spits. Avoid breathing in a stop the spread of disease by staying clear of infected people.
Wash your hands often. One of the most common ways germs and infections diseases are spread is by touching infected people and surfaces. When an infected person sneezes or coughs into their hands and touches another person or an object such a a door knob, the disease is transferred from the infected person's hands to the other person or surface. The germs are then spread to other people and spread of disease continues in a vicious cycle. Washing your hands often will ensure that germs are rinsed washed away from the hands before the virus is contracted or has had time to spread.
Get immunized. Many types of infectious diseases can be prevented with immunizations. Children are often immunized against the most common types of disease at young ages. If you were not immunized as a child, you can visit a doctor's office or clinic and request to receive the proper immunizations. Immunizations have helped to eradicate many terrible diseases and are one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of disease.
Take vitamins that will help build up your immune system to stop the spread of disease. Vitamin C is a great way to protect yourself. You purchase vitamins and supplements from health stores, pharmacies and many department stores. Always talk with your doctor before you begin taking new vitamins and supplements.
Avoid Infecting Others
Avoid contact with other people while you are sick, especially young children and the elderly while you are contagious. Do not go to school, work or to other activities. Also avoid going to the grocery store. Stay at home and in bed when possible. This will not only help stop the spread of disease, but will also allow you to rest and heal faster.
If you realize you are sick, visit a doctor immediately. The doctor will be able to diagnose the exact illness and help suggest ways to prevent the spread of disease. The doctor will also be able to prescribe medicine to help heal you quicker and reduce the amount of time that you are contagious.
Use tissues and wash your hands to avoid spreading your own germs to others. Cover your mouth and nose with tissues or your hands when coughing or sneezing and wash your hands afterwards. Inform others that you are sick so they will know to avoid contact with you.
Tips and comments
Discuss the different ways to prevent the spread of disease with your doctor.
