With winter here in full force, many South Africans are plagued by colds.
Apart from wrapping yourself up in a warm scarf and getting your daily vitamin C fix, here’s what you can do to protect yourself (and those around you).
Take action:
wash your hands often, especially when you’re around people with colds
stop smoking – smoking irritates the mucous membranes of the nose, sinuses and lungs, which may make them more susceptible to infections
keep your stress levels under control – if you’re exposed to cold viruses, a high level of stress may increase your chances of catching a cold
when you have a cold, avoid sneezing without covering your mouth (also avoid spreading nasal secretions on your hands)
use disposable tissues rather than a handkerchief.
Read more:
Cold meds - what you need to know
Chase away a winter cold
Is it a cold, or is it the flu?