The Only Cure for the Common Cold is to Avoid It
Each year in the United States, there are millions of cases of the common cold. The CDC estimates adults have 2-3 colds per year and children have even more. The pesky, cold-causing virus brings sore throats, sneezing, coughing, stuffy and runny noses and so much more and it�s just a miserable 7-10 days for most cold sufferers. Because the common cold is a virus, it cannot be cured by antibiotics, so it�s best to try and avoid it completely!
Reduce your risk of getting sick with these proven steps:
Wash your hands often: Viruses can live on your hands for about an hour, so regular hand washing can protect you from getting sick. Make sure to scrub your hands using soap and water for at least 20 seconds! When clean water and soap aren't available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer to cleanse your hands.
Disinfect or avoid frequently touched surfaces: Cold viruses can live on hard surfaces such as sinks or door handles for up to a day, so disinfect them when you can, or avoid touching them altogether. For example, use a paper towel to open the bathroom door, avoid handrails on stairs or escalators and take advantage of automatic doors in buildings.
Stay away from people who are sick: Avoid close contact with those who are already sick, don�t share food or drinks, refrain from kissing, hugging and shaking hands, and be sure to wash your hands if you are around someone suffering from a cold.
If you get a cold:
Stay home whenever possible.
Cough and sneeze into a tissue or your sleeve at the elbow joint, not into your hands!
Rest and drink lots of fluids.
Consult a healthcare provider about which over the counter medications might work for you.