The cold and flu season is here in full force. Most people would much rather avoid getting a cold than to cope with cold symptoms.

While colds are caused by becoming infected with a virus, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of infection.

A person becomes more susceptible to a virus when their immune system is below par or under stress. Getting adequate rest and sleep and making sure you get all of the necessary nutrients from your diet are ways to keep your immune system functioning at its peak.

Also it is very important to wash your hands often during the cold season, especially if you are in an environment where the cold virus is present. Hands, because they come into frequent contact with eyes, nose and mouth, are a primary mode of virus transmission.

If you become infected with the cold virus, you can more effectively cope with a cold by being sensitive to early cold symptoms. A minor sore throat, muscle aches, a few sniffles, a headache, or mild chills can be early signs that a cold is coming on.

It is easier and more effective to deal with these symptoms than the more severe ones that will follow. The following self-care measures are intended to assist your body in its healing process (since there is no cure for the common cold or flu) and to relieve symptoms.

You will recognize many of them as things your mother told you to do. Mom was right about some things, and all of the following have scientific research to back them up.

Rest in bed, for a few days if possible.

If you smoke, stop.

Drink plenty of fluids, preferably warm ones. Fluids should include plenty of Vitamin C fruit juices and water. Alcohol and beverages containing caffeine are to be avoided.

For a sore throat, gargle with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt per cup of warm water) or suck on hard candies to soothe throat. Over-the-counter drugs can also be used to numb the throat.

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

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

Check your temperature using a thermometer. (available at the Wellness Resource Center for $1). Stay warm, but do not try to “sweat it out” — this might cause dehydration.

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

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

Keep in mind that any over-the-counter medication is purely for relief of symptoms and not a cure. ALWAYS read and follow the label instructions for the product you are going to use.

Avoid the use of nasal sprays.

These self-care measures will work for most common cold and flu cases. If these methods fail to work or you are unsure of your symptoms, you can visit the Cold Care Center at the Health Service.

The purpose of the Cold Care Center is to help you learn how to care for your cold, prevent future colds, and minimize waiting time at the Health Center. For more information call 3-9587.