Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently, especially before eating, after visiting public places such as shopping malls or being in contact with anyone with a cold or the flu. Do not share items that can spread germs and viruses, such as drinking cups, straws or other items you put in your mouth. Clean things that are touched often in the household, workplace and child care settings.

Drink lots of fluids, especially those with essential nutrients and high in vitamin C, such as Tropicana orange juice-to maintain proper hydration and a healthy immune system. Avoid close contact (holding, hugging, kissing) with anyone who has a cold or the flu. "It's hard to follow this one during the holidays," says Dr. Nequin. "But giving someone a cold or flu isn't a good gift idea and isn't something you necessarily want to exchange." Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Providing children with a nutritionally sound diet; encouraging them to get plenty of physical activity; giving them plenty of water; reducing the amount of stress in their lives; and ensuring they get enough rest are the most effective ways to boost their immune systems and prevent them from getting the flu. Parents can also implement vitamin supplements into older children’s diets (upon doctor's approval) to maximize nutrition. Encourage children to keep their hands out of their noses, eyes and mouths, as germs are frequently spread in this manner. Teach children to sneeze into a tissue, and discard it immediately after each use. Keep youngsters out of crowded environments whenever possible. Don’t allow sick people around your children. Periodically open windows in the home during flu season to allow fresh air to circulate.

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