Keep them away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. Tobacco users are more likely to catch a cold and more likely to have a cold develop into a more serious infection, such as pneumonia. Avoid secondhand smoke. Exposure to secondhand smoke also makes you more susceptible to colds and flu. Ask your health care provider about getting a flu shot if you are 65 or older or have a chronic illness such as diabetes, asthma, emphysema, heart disease, kidney failure, cystic fibrosis, cancer, or an immune disorder.
Some people find relief in the home treatments listed below.
We don't have strong scientific backing to say that they work, but they might help. For other self-care ideas refer to your Healthwise Handbook or Healthwise for Life. Do not give aspirin to anyone under 20 years of age. It has been linked to a rare but serious disease, Reye's Syndrome. Drink 8 ounces every two hours.