The worst thing about colds and the flu is how quickly they spread through the family. Most people don’t realise that our hands are one of the main ways that cold & flu viruses can spread especially in the first 2-4 days when they are coughing, sneezing and have a runny nose.

The key to stopping the cold and flu merry-go-round is to kill the viruses that cause these illnesses before they transfer to family members.

How?
Here’s some simple tips

1. Teach children to always cough, sneeze or blow their nose into a tissue
2. Throw the tissue in the bin after using it only once
3. If there is no box of tissues handy, teach children to cough or sneeze into cupped hands
4. Ensure hands are washed with soap and water after sneezing or coughing
5. Don’t share cups, glasses, drink bottles, straws or cutlery
6. Ensure hands are washed before eating and are kept away from the eyes, nose and mouth at all other times
7. Make sure everyone in the family gets regular exercise and eats plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables to help them stay healthy

Coughs, colds and moreWhen to call a doctor

• Coughs, colds and more
• Managing colds and flu
• When to call a doctor

• Tips from parents