How to Stop a Virus From Spreading

Cold and flu season can feel relentless, especially when new viruses make the rounds each year. The good news is there are practical steps you can consider to lower your chances of getting sick and to protect those around you.

Soap, water, repeat

One of the most effective ways to cut down on virus transmission is regular hand washing.

And yes we know – that sounds ridiculously obvious, right? It’s no secret that washing your hands is important. But you’d be surprised by how many people skimp when it comes down to this habit. (One study found that only 5% of people wash their hands properly!)

“The way that viruses transfer from person to person and place to place isn’t usually because you got coughed on by someone who’s sick,” explains pediatric infectious disease expert Frank Esper, MD. “Instead, someone usually coughs on their hands and goes on to touch something. Then someone else touches that thing with their hands and their hands end up in their mouth – along with the virus.”

One of the best things you can do to protect yourself during cold and flu season (and really anytime of the year) is to break the transmission cycle by routinely washing your hands.

Also remember that any virus you might already have has the potential to spread to others in the same fashion. So washing your hands every time you cough, or every time that you’re interacting with someone, preferably before you interact with them, is the best thing that you can do.

It’s one of the reasons why doctors always wash their hands before they see a patient and again right afterwards, Dr. Esper says.

Does the hand washing rule apply with RSV and children too?

Good hand hygiene is incredibly important when it comes to babies and small children too, especially when it comes to helping prevent the spread of RSV.

But often times the average two-year-old can’t wash their hands very well – let alone have the coordination or attention span for it. This is where the introduction of alcohol-based rubs, especially for the younger age groups, works well.

It’s also important to understand the impact of hand washing for those around young children.

“When your child is home from school with a runny nose or cough, a lot of times the grandparents or other family members will come over to watch them,” says Dr. Esper. “It’s very important to make sure that everyone who is interacting with the kids knows to wash their hands.”

It’s also a good idea to talk to children about not touching their noses or rubbing their eyes. Most of the time it’s still going to be typical two-year-old behavior –but it helps to start educating them about it when they’re young.

How to avoid getting sick

If you’re still trying to tough out cold and flu season without becoming a victim (or looking for tips on not getting sick again), follow these guidelines:

• One option doctors often recommend is getting an annual flu shot, since it can reduce your chances of serious illness.
• Be diligent about washing your hands throughout the day.
• In crowded or high-risk settings, some people choose to wear a mask or respirator for added protection — especially if they’re more vulnerable to illness.
• Don’t touch your face! Keep your hands out of your eyes, ears, nose and mouth.
• Always carry hand sanitizer with you. (Place it around your home or office for convenience.)
• Focus on good nutrition to help boost your immunity.
• Exercise regularly.
• Get enough sleep.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Try a humidifier.
• Stay home when you’re sick or keep your kids at home if they’re sick.
• Practice stress management.
• Know when to see a doctor.

Some people turn to vitamin C drinks or supplements when they feel sick. While research hasn’t proven they consistently shorten colds or flu, they’re generally safe in moderation.