Remedy #10: Antibiotics. While antibiotics destroy bacteria, they will not help against cold viruses. Antibiotics will not help you recover faster, and using the drugs inappropriately contributes to the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Tips to stay germ-free
When it comes to avoiding colds and flu, mother’s advice to “wash your hands” is still the best. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds with ordinary soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer will destroy most viruses, which can linger on surfaces for up to 48 hours. (For more on the best technique for washing your hands, click here). Use a paper towel rather than a cloth one to dry your hands. Other tips:

• Whenever possible, keep your distance from people who are sick, and stay home if you’re sick yourself.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent contaminating yourself.
• Keep it clean. Regularly sanitize your desk, phone and computer keyboard — at home and at the office — with sanitizing wipes.
• Try to manage stress, which lowers immunity.
• Boost your natural immunity with regular exercise and a healthy diet.

Sources: Mayo Clinic, WebMd.com, U.S. Centers for Disease Control, The Lancet, Health Canada

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