Colds are transmitted through the air via coughing and sneezing, and via surface contact, such as door handles. It therefore makes sense to wash your hands regularly with soap and water and to avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Food preparation is another area where sensible precautions can avoid problems such as gastro-enteritis:

• Rinse all meat and fish under running water before cooking

• Wash your hands each time a new raw food is touched

• Never cut cooked and raw meats on the same board

• Ensure that any raw animal products are properly packed and stored on the lowest shelf in the fridge – away from cooked items

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