Fight Family Sickness with Immunity-Boosting Tricks!

If you or your child suffer from asthma, allergy, and/or sinus problems, opt to stay indoors, close windows during allergy season, and try to avoid triggers, suggests the FDA. Changing the air filters in your home regularly will also help remove pollens and other triggers from your environment. Be sure to change vacuum cleaner bags and filters regularly to reduce germs and dust. And, of course, do not subject irritated sinus cavities, nasal passages, and airways to smoke.

When possible, avoid coming in close contact with someone fighting a cold or the flu—and if you or your child are ill, stay home until you're completely well. Everyone should wash their hands frequently with soap or an alcohol-based hand cleanser. Encourage your children to not touch mouths, eyes, or noses, and remind them to either cover their mouths when sneezing or coughing or to cough into the inside of the arm (the inner elbow) to avoid getting germs on their hands. Also if children play together, it's imperative to clean toys and play areas thoroughly.

And lastly, don't forget about the benefits of regular exercise for everyone in the family. Moderate exercise helps us feel better as it reduces stress—a bonus for immunity since stress increases a body's susceptibility to infections.