Preventing colds and the flu

Take these steps to help avoid getting sick:

• Get an annual flu vaccine unless your health care provider recommends against it. Most adults and children older than 6 months of age should get a flu vaccination every year.
• Ask your health care provider if you need a pneumonia vaccination. Having asthma increases your risk of developing pneumonia after getting the flu.
• Stay away from anyone who's sick. Germs that cause respiratory infections are easily passed from person to person.
• Wash your hands often. This kills the germs that can cause respiratory infections. Carry a bottle of hand sanitizer to kill germs while you're on the go.
• Don't touch your eyes, nose and mouth. These are the points where germs enter your body.
• Don't share your inhaler or other breathing equipment with others. Germs can spread on surfaces.