Cold and flu are among the most prevalent diseases. Statistics show that in our country, more than one billion cases of cold are diagnosed every year. In the case of flu, between 5 to 10 percent of the American population gets affected each year. Cold and flu both are respiratory diseases caused by viruses, and their symptoms are similar.

How to prevent cold and flu and common remedies
In general, unlike cold, flu can cause severe complications including pneumonia and may need hospitalization. As there is no cure for these contagious diseases, prevention is the best method to control it. Here you can find five such healthy habits that are basically common remedies for cold and flu.

• Vaccination
  An yearly vaccination is the first healthy habit you should build. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends that you vaccinate every individual who is over six months old in your family except when they have allergies or certain other restrictions. Getting the vaccine is the most effective method for flu prevention. Unfortunately, no vaccine can help you protect against the common cold.

• Hygiene
  Washing hands is another healthy habit that you should follow to prevent cold and flu. Washing your hands frequently with warm water and soap can help you protect from germs, especially after coming in contact with people who are ill. Rubbing your hands for approximately 20 seconds can remove most of the viruses. Using hand sanitizers can also work when water and soap are not available. However, remember to clean between the fingers and inside the nails.

• Lifestyle choices
  A habit of eating healthily and getting plenty of sleep can reduce your chances of catching a cold or flu. Including nutritious vegetables and fruits abundant with antioxidants in your diet can positively impact your health. Additionally, seven to eight hours of sleep every night promotes a healthy immune system that can resist these common diseases.

• Exercise
  Exercise is one of the key elements that provide the necessary boost to your immune system. Exercising moderately can help reduce your risk of catching a common cold or flu. If exercising is too strenuous for you, a routine brisk walk for 45 minutes can generate a long-term health benefit, including the resistance to these common diseases. This is one of the most common remedies for cold and flu.

• General cleanliness
  Keeping your surroundings clean can eliminate various germs liable for spreading these diseases. Practicing good hygiene like cleaning the most used items, a common gathering place in your house, and workspace can prevent these diseases from spreading out from person to person.

These habits can become positive measures and work as common remedies for cold and flu and reduce the risk factor significantly. If you think you have caught the flu or have a cold, you may want to consult with your healthcare provider to see if you need any medicines. The sooner you treat the symptoms, the earlier you can get relief and return to your daily routine.