In 80% of cases, infectious diseases are transmitted through direct contact – kissing – or by indirect contact – using a phone previously used by a sick person. Many viruses, including influenza, are in the air and waiting to be inhaled by a human host. Do not worry, you’re not completely helpless in the battle man-viruses! Read the precautions below to know how to reduce the risk of contacting a cold, flu or other viruses.

1. Do not touch your face!. Viruses – those that cause common colds – usually attacks the body through the mouth, eyes and nose. These areas are gates which are open for mucosal pathogens.

2. Wash your hands properly! Rub them vigorously with soap (any soap) for 15 seconds and rinse them with warm water. Hand washing removes germs, so make sure you rub your hands well, each finger separately and the skin under fingernails, nails should also be cut short as possible.

3. Be especially vigilant in public toilets! These spaces are a source of germs multiplication.

4. Drink plenty of fluids! When oral mucosa, nasal or pharynx are dry, germs find it easier to settle there. Drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Limit coffee consumption because produces dehydration.

5. Get your annual flu shot! This vaccine not only protects you from cold, but prevents the flu that is closely linked to pneumonia, ear infections and sinusitis. Studies show that people who make flu vaccine presents a much smaller risk of diseases compared with those who prefer not to use this vaccine. The vaccine is especially recommended for those whose age is over 50 years, for pregnant women, for people who have a weaker immune system and medical staff in contact with patients.

6. Eliminate Stress! It is a fact that stress weakens your immune system. In a study done in Pittsburgh (400 healthy adults were subjected to stress conditions and exposed to respiratory infections) has proved that those who failed to control stress were exposed twice to influenza threat than in the who were able to handle stress factors. Vaccine loses effectiveness in some people especially older who are unable to control the stress.

7. Do not forget to exercise daily! Physical activity strengthens your immune system and helps to effectively combat disease and illness. To reduce the risk of contacting respiratory infections, experts recommend 30 minutes of exercise per day.