The cold and flu season is here in full force. While colds are caused by becoming infected with a virus, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection.

Getting adequate rest and making sure you eat a well-balanced diet are ways to keep your immune system at peak functioning.

Also, it is very important to wash your hands often during the cold season, as hands come into frequent contact with eyes, nose and mouth and are a primary mode of virus infection.

A minor sore throat, muscle aches, sniffles, or mild chills can be early signs that a cold is coming on. Even though there is no cure for the common cold or flu, the following self-care measures can assist your body in its healing process.

You will recognize many of them as things your mother told you to do. Nevertheless, all of them have scientific research to back them up.

1. Rest in bed, for a few days if possible.

2. If you smoke, stop.

3. Drink plenty of fluids, preferably warm ones, including plenty of water and fruit juices with vitamin C. Alcohol and caffeinated beverages are to be avoided.

4. To soothe a sore throat, gargle with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt per cup of warm water) or suck on hard candies.

5. Use Acetaminophen, not aspirin, for headache, body aches and fever.

6. Increase room humidity to relieve nasal congestion by using a vaporizer or taking a steamy bath or shower.

7. Check your temperature. Thermometers are available in the Wellness Resource Center for $1. Stay warm, but do not try to “sweat it out;” this may cause dehydration.

8. Do not take antibiotics unless prescribed for you for the episode of illness (not one you had last year). Colds and flus are caused by viruses which do not respond to antibiotics.

9. Avoid the use of multi-symptom cold remedies. If you must use any over-the-counter medications, take only those designed for your specific system.

10. Avoid the use of nasal sprays.

If these methods fail to work or you are unsure of your symptoms, visit the NIU Health Service, or for more information call 753-9587.