A person in bed with a thermometer in their mouth

Cold and Flu Prevention

Washing your hands and getting the annual flu vaccine are effective prevention tactics for the cold and flu. Learn how else to protect your immune system.
Flu patch
Could a Flu Patch Bring an End to Flu Shots?
Medically reviewed by Michael Menna, DO
Soapy hands at sink
The Hidden Risks of Antibacterial Soap
Medically reviewed by Rochelle Collins, DO
Doctor giving young girl flu shot
Flu Shots: Timing, Side Effects, and More
Medically reviewed by Anju Goel, MD, MPH
Father holding newborn son
Who Should Not Get Flu Shots
Medically reviewed by Chris Vincent, MD
Young man smiles in relief at pharmacist after flu vaccination
Afluria Flu Vaccine Jet Injector: Uses, Side Effects, Dosages, Precautions
Medically reviewed by Michael Menna, DO
Woman blowing her nose
Why Isn't There a Vaccine for the Common Cold?
Medically reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD
Boy getting flu shot
Common Side Effects of the Influenza Vaccine
Medically reviewed by Keri Peterson, MD
Flu shot
Can I Get A Flu Shot While Sick?
Medically reviewed by Michael Menna, DO
Man lying down with headache
Can You Get the Flu From a Flu Shot?
Medically reviewed by Jason DelCollo, DO
Senior man coughing into elbow.
Why You Should Cover Your Cough
Medically reviewed by Elizabeth Molina Ortiz, MD, MPH
onions
Does an Onion in the Room Stop a Cold or Flu?
Medically reviewed by Jason DelCollo, DO
older man on couch lacing up sneakers
6 Ways to Boost Your Immune System Naturally
Medically reviewed by Emily Dashiell, ND
flu-shot-lge.jpg
Why You May Still Get Sick After a Flu Shot
Medically reviewed by Michael Menna, DO
Vaccine vial
Is a Preservative-Free Flu Vaccine Safer?
Medically reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD
Woman receiving a vaccine.
How Long Does a Flu Shot Last?
Medically reviewed by Keri Peterson, MD
Toothbrush in cup
Should I Replace My Toothbrush After I've Been Sick?
Medically reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD
Cropped Image Of Woman Washing Hands At Sink In Kitchen
Tips for Preventing Colds and the Flu
Medically reviewed by Andy Miller, MD
Mother and Father with Sick Child.
How to Stay Healthy When Your Family Is Sick
Medically reviewed by Anju Goel, MD, MPH
2 vials of flu vaccine
How Flu Shots Work and Why They Sometimes Don't
Medically reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD
airborne tablets
Airborne Immune Supplement: Uses, Side Effects, Dosages
Fact checked by Ashley Hall
Flu
What Are the First Signs of Flu?
Medically reviewed by Sanja Jelic, MD
Getting flu vaccine
Are You Having an Allergic Reaction to the Flu Vaccine?
Medically reviewed by Michael Menna, DO
Kiwi and granola with nuts
5 Food Nutrients to Supercharge Your Immune System
Medically reviewed by Arno Kroner, DAOM, LAc
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Why You Need a Flu Shot If You're Over 50
Medically reviewed by Cristian Zanartu, MD