But, she says, wait until after your child's first birthday to have the shots administered. Babies likely will have no response to the vaccination and they may suffer adverse effects that are as bad as the flu itself. Colds and the flu are viruses that live in the air, on used tissues, on doorknobs and just about everywhere else. Keeping your child's hands clean should be a priority, says Elbirt. If soap and water isn't handy, use disinfectant wipes or waterless soap, she advises.
Ventilation is another tool for parents in their battle against viruses.
One way to protect against airborne illness is open windows. A cool-mist humidifier or even a pan of water sitting on top of a heater also helps counter dry air. People may find cool air uncomfortable, but it won't make them sick. If your child is already sick, research shows that vitamin C will help shorten the run of a cold but not prevent it, Elbirt says. Very young children and older children can unstuff their noses by sitting in a steamed-up bathroom, but it is virtually impossible to get toddlers to do this, she says.