The best way to avoid winter germs is with a flu shot, a healthy lifestyle and good personal hygiene. Colds and flues are caught in two main ways: From respiratory droplets spread from a cough or sneeze (droplets generally travel By touching contaminated surfaces such as door handles, taps, tissues and hands and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes. Flu viruses can survive on some hard surfaces for up to 2 days. Boosting your immune system helps your body fight germs. Eat a healthy diet with lots of fruit and veggies, reduce stress, don’t smoke and get plenty of sleep and exercise. Avoid close contact with people who are sick as much as possible. Wash your hands often in soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand gel, especially before eating and after contact with a sick person. A well-fitting face mask covering the nose and mouth helps protect against airborne viruses. They should be used only once and changed 2-3 times daily. Surgical paper mas