How to avoid catching a common cold? (Common Cold Prevention)

When we are at the office, when we are on the bus, when the kids are coming back from school... we often catch a cold, don't we? Once we catch one, it can be very uncomfortable for a few days, and we can't do any work. Would you believe me if I told you that there is a very simple and very effective way to stay away from this annoying cold? It doesn't require any big plans, just remember three words: "Wash your hands thoroughly!"

How does this disease spread to us?

It's very simple. The main way a cold spreads is through droplets from an infected person's mouth or nose when they cough or sneeze. These droplets contain millions of viruses that cause colds.

Imagine, someone in your office sneezes. Those germ-laden droplets land on the desk in front of them, on the computer keyboard, on the doorknob, on the phone, etc. Or they touch these things with the same hand they sneezed on. Then, unknowingly, you come and touch that doorknob, or use that keyboard.

What happens now? The germs are on your hands. Then, without even realizing it, you touch your mouth, nose, or eyes with that hand. That's when the virus on your hands enters your body and infects you. It can happen in a very short time.

Why is hand washing so important?

Some viruses that cause colds can live for hours on surfaces like doorknobs and tables. So, the best and easiest way to prevent these germs from entering our bodies is to wash our hands frequently and thoroughly.

Also, imagine that you have a cold. If you wash your hands properly, you can prevent someone else from getting the disease. That's a big help for others.

There is scientific evidence to support this story. In a study conducted at a US military training camp, soldiers were instructed to wash their hands at least five times a day. After two years, they found that the number of respiratory illnesses (such as colds) had decreased by 45% compared to the year before the program. See how much of a difference a small habit can make!

This is how to wash your hands properly!

Many of us forget to wash our hands properly because we are so busy. Just adding a little water and rubbing is not enough. Here is how to do it properly.

1. First, wet your hands thoroughly with clean water.

2. Next, take as much soap as you need. Liquid soap is best.

3. Now the most important thing. Rub your hands together well. Between the fingers, on the palms, on the back of the hands, on the wrists, and especially under the nails.Clean your hands thoroughly with soap. Most germs are hidden under your nails. If you have time, it's best to use a small nail brush.

4. Then, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

5. Finally, dry your hands thoroughly with a clean cloth, paper towel, or air dryer.

A little extra tip: If you're washing your hands in a public restroom, turn off the tap with the tissue you just used to dry your hands. That way, you won't get germs on the tap again. Also, try to push the door open with your elbow or use a tissue to hold the doorknob.

How many times a day should you wash your hands?

When we say "regularly" to wash your hands, what kind of times does that mean? It's times like these that make it a habit to wash your hands regularly, which is very important for your health.

What do you do if there is no water in a nearby stream?

We're not always in a place where we can wash our hands. What do we do when we're on the bus or on the road?

This is where an alcohol-based hand sanitizer comes in handy. It's a good idea to always keep a small bottle of sanitizer in your bag.

But be careful of these things when using a sanitizer:

• The sanitizer you use should contain at least 60% alcohol . It should be listed on the label.
• Take some sanitizer and rub it all over your hands (palms, back, between your fingers, around your nails) until it dries thoroughly.

Even a minor illness like a cold can disrupt our daily routine. So, how valuable would it be if we could avoid it with this simple, inexpensive habit? Tell your family and friends about this. If everyone joins in and follows this good habit, we can stay healthy.