Germs have a multitude of ways they can get around; through sneezing, dirty surfaces or direct contact with an infected person who hasn’t shown any symptoms. When you understand how viruses and bacteria are spread, there is a lot you can do to keep yourself healthy.

Here are some simple tips on how to prevent getting a cold.

 

1. Cleaning your hands.

 
This is the best way on how to prevent getting sick when you feel it. You may not be able to see it, but your hands carry germs all the time. You can easily avoid getting sick by practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, before eating and after going to the bathroom, touching dirty surfaces or being out and about during the day.

If soap and water are not available, you can also use hand sanitizers. Just rub your hands together until the hand sanitizer evaporates, and if dryness is a problem, you can use a moisturizing lotion afterwards. Your skin protects you against germs, which can enter your body through cuts on your skin, so take care of it.

2. Avoid being touchy.

 

Avoid touching anything that isn’t skin, like teeth, picking your nose or scratching your eyes because that is how germs on your hands can enter your body.  Keep toothpicks available for your teeth and baby wipes to rub your eyes, nose, or face. Carry antibacterial hand cleaner in your car, briefcase, or purse as an alternative to sanitize your hands when water and soap are not available.

3. Regularly clean and disinfect “high-touch” surfaces and objects.

 

Doorknobs, light switches, diaper changing areas, railing, and other public objects are surfaces that people often touch. When you touch the surface, some germs can live on for a long time, and be carried by your hand if you’re not careful.

The more regularly you touch things everyone else is touching, the more likely you are to get sick. Don’t forget to follow the cleaning instructions on your cleaning products or you can hire a professional house cleaning service to make sure that everything is spotless and germ-free.

4. Maintain a healthy immune system.

 

When your immune system is weak, you are susceptible to catching a cold or an infection. Getting a complete rest, exercise, eating healthy foods and drinking plenty of water will boost your immune system.

Take vitamin C daily. Almost every day, 365 days a year, you should take vitamin C. This method will help you stay healthy and fight off any viruses and diseases that you will encounter every day.

5. Take care of yourself more.

 

Get vaccinated and make sure your family are up-to-date on their shots and get the annual flu vaccine. When you are exposed to the germs afterward, vaccines can help your body fight some of them better. Stay active and make healthy food choices. By doing so, it makes your body stronger and more robust, so that it can better fight off germs and prevent infections.

The advantages of staying healthy go beyond the obvious. When you’re feeling good, you are more able to fulfill your responsibilities at home and work. By being concerned about your well-being, you show respect to those with whom you live and work. Staying well also plays a big part in your happiness and overall satisfaction in life.