How can you prevent cough and colds?

A strong immune system is always the best way to prevent cough and colds. If the immune system is weakened once, infections have an easy time of it. Especially during the cough and cold season, it's important to reduce the risk of infection by taking some extra preventive measures. The following actions can help your body to resist infection by cough and cold germs.

Boost your immune system.

• Regular exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle. It supports your metabolic activity and your immune system, making it easier for your body to fight off infection. A daily walk in the fresh air is a good start. Children, especially, should be encouraged to be physically active.
• Get sufficient sleep and avoid unnecessary stress. Research has shown that stress reduces the effectiveness of the immune system.
• Ensure you have a well-balanced diet. Eat lots of vitamins contained in fresh fruit and vegetables. Citrus fruits, peppers, spinach and broccoli are great sources of important vitamins.

Keep pathogenic germs away.

If you safeguard yourself against viruses and bacteria, they don't have a chance to take a hold in your respiratory system.

• If colds are doing the rounds, play it safe and wash your hands more frequently than usual. As colds are passed on by the tiniest droplets, keep away if someone is sneezing or coughing close to you.
• Avoid sharing kitchenware such as cups, glasses and cutlery among family members and friends.

Maintain a healthy environment.

Not only your behaviour, but also your environment is important if you want to avoid getting a cough or a cold. Here are some simple steps you can take:

• Avoid high levels of heating: rooms that are too hot rapidly dry out the mucous membranes. This makes it easier for germs to start an infection.
• If possible, try to avoid drastic changes in temperature. The shock of moving from a cool, air-conditioned room to a hot day outside puts extra strain on the immune system.
• Air rooms regularly. This replaces stale, germ-laden air, and supplies the body with fresh oxygen. Fresh air helps keep the mucous membranes healthy and moist.
• Wear warm clothing outdoors that is water-repellent but breathable. Maintaining a healthy body temperature helps your body to fight infection. It is no coincidence that we call it a "cold".