FROM THE DESK OF RANDALL A. KROCKA

SMOHIT Administrator

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Colds are caused by viral infections. More than 200 different viruses can cause cold symptoms of varying severity. According to a new Yale University study, the common cold virus can reproduce itself more efficiently in the cooler temperatures found inside the nose than at core body temperature. This finding may confirm the popular yet contested notion that people are more likely to catch a cold in cool-weather conditions.

Rhinoviruses can survive on doorknobs, table tops, shopping cart handles, and other surfaces for 24 hours or more. Studies also show how easily viruses can be picked up.

The most obvious way to prevent picking up a cold, then, is keeping your fingers out of your eyes and nose. Most of us rub our eyes or touch our noses without thinking.  

A more practical approach is to wash your hands frequently. Rub your hands together with soap and warm water, scrubbing the fronts and backs and in between your fingers for at least 20 seconds. 

Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is a great backup plan if soap and water aren't available.

Regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that are touched frequently can also help slow the spread of germs. Use a household disinfectant to clean countertops, desks, doorknobs, handles, phones, and toys.

Getting a good night's sleep just might bolster your defenses against colds and perhaps flu bugs as well. There's growing evidence of a link between sleep and a healthy immune system. 

While it is impossible to completely prevent the spread of colds, here are some additional steps you can take to reduce your and your family's chances of becoming infected:

• Don't smoke.
  Cigarette smoke can irritate the airways and increase susceptibility to colds and other infections. Even exposure to passive smoke can make you (or your children) more vulnerable to colds.
• Use disposable items if someone in your family is infected.
  Disposable cups can be thrown away after each use and prevent accidental spread of the virus from sharing of cups or glasses. This is particularly important if you have young children who may try to drink from others' cups.
• Use paper towels in the kitchen and bathroom for hand washing.
  Germs can live for several hours on cloth towels. Alternatively, have separate towels for each family member and provide a clean one for guests.
• Throw tissues away after use.
  Used tissues are sources of virus that can contaminate any surface where they are left.