A cold and puffy nose, during winter is extremely common. Most people are down with at least two to five bouts a year. Experts advice certain protective tips which could help reduce the number of infections.
According to latest research, most cold and flu viruses are transmitted after contact with an infected surface and not so much because of being sneezed over. In the context, they advice, that it is imperative to wash hands thoroughly and keep them in warm water for 15 seconds. The wet hands need to be dried with a disposable towel. This hygiene is to be maintained regularly, more so after exposing hands to germs (e.g. traveling in a public transport, shaking hands, etc).Experts advice further precaution with kids due to weakened immune systems. Kids should be advised to sneeze into their shoulders instead of their palms, so that they do not spread the infection. Again they should be advised to wash their hands regularly.
Water, is extremely important, so sip a glass of water every hour, experts say. "Keep well-hydrated so your system will be flushed," advises infection expert Jean Pfeiffer. The nasal linings become dry when the body is dehydrated, increasing the susceptibility to viruses. Finally keeping warm and taking vital Vitamin C, is good protection against common cold.
Source-Medindia
SAV
