According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the common cold is the most-frequently occurring illness in the world. It leads to approximately 22 million school absences per year.
Colds are caused by viruses that spread from person to person through tiny droplets of mucus, which enter the air from an infected person and come into contact with or are inhaled by others. The droplets spread particularly well on cold, damp surfaces.
During winter, since most of us spend more time inside, in closer contact with other people who may be infected, our chances of catching a cold increase.
In October 2009, the Bagley (Minn.) High School football team had to forfeit a playoff game because so many of their players and coaches had cold and flu symptoms.
To help prevent mid-season colds, follow these three simple steps:
1 Wash and disinfect your hands multiple times throughout the day.
2 Avoid contact with any teammate or classmate who feels ill or exhibits flu symptoms.
3 Dry off, bundle up and wear a winter hat after practice to prevent catching a cold from outside elements.
For more tips about staying healthy, hit up the Health section at BLOG.STACK.com.