Considered to be one of the most common ailments, a cold is a type of viral infection that affects over a million people in the United States every year. Many researchers also believe this condition to be responsible for most school and work absenteeism. However, this condition is not harmful and can be easily cured with some old-time remedies. A cold or flu generally spreads from one person to another through small droplets of mucus, which is why it becomes almost impossible to completely prevent this illness.

Nevertheless, if you take some preventive measures, you might be able to reduce your risk of developing a common cold or flu:

1. Wash your hands as often as possible
According to most health specialists, this is one of the best ways to prevent the common cold viruses, such as rhinoviruses and enteroviruses, from being transmitted. Thus, after returning from a public place, such as a gym, school, or after running errands, it is necessary to wash your hands properly. You may also opt for a small sanitizer which you will be able to carry, no matter where you go. Washing hands as often as possible will help you get rid of all the viruses that you may have acquired from someone else.

2. Increase the intake of garlic
Garlic is known to carry a high amount of anti-bacterial and anti-inflammable nutrients, which can help you treat the symptoms of a cold and assist you to prevent the disease. Most people still consider garlic soup to be one of the most effective old-time remedies for colds and flu.

3. Stop smoking
Some health specialists also consider smoking to be one of the leading causes of both common cold and flu. Smoking usually leads to these health conditions by affecting and irritating your airways. Thus, if you are an avid smoker, restricting the number of cigarettes you smoke per day can be helpful.

4. Keep household surfaces clean
Some of the household surfaces such as doorknobs, switches, remote controls, sinks, and telephones can also carry the viruses of cold and flu. Thus, you should wipe these most-used surfaces as often as possible to minimize the risk of getting this condition.

5. Drink enough liquid
Drinking a healthy amount of water is considered as a great remedy for colds and flu. However, according to some of the health specialists, drinking at least 2 to 3 liters of water every day can also help you to reduce the risk of getting the common cold by boosting your overall health.

So, these are some of the preventive measures which you can take to stay as healthy as possible. However, if you still catch a cold, visit your doctor as soon as possible to get rid of the unpleasant symptoms of the disease.