Cough, Cold & Flu

Preventative Measures

• Avoid, or learn to manage, stress. Stress may make the body less able to fight infection.
• Stay fit. Even low-impact exercise such as a brisk walk stimulates the immune system and activates your body's defenses against infection.
• Eat healthily. Your body needs energy and the right balance of nutrients to fight infection. A low-fat, high-fibre diet with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables and fewer processed foods will help your immune system do its work.
• Wash your hands frequently. Handwashing is the simplest and most effective way to prevent a cold.
• Drink plenty of fluids daily.
• You may want to consider a flu vaccination in the fall, especially if you are over the age of 65, have a chronic illness or work in a setting where you meet a lot of people, e.g., a daycare or hospital. For more information on the flu vaccine, contact the Ministry of Health Flu Line at 1-866-358-6968 or 1-800-387-5559, or visit their Web site at: http://www.gov.on.ca/health.