‘Nasal spray’ ‘Fresh air’

Professor Ron Eccles, former director of the Common Cold Centre at Cardiff University

WASH YOUR HANDS

Washing our hands regularly for 20 seconds has become second nature to us all – and it’s one of the best ways of avoiding a cold too. ‘The only way to avoid catching a cold completely is to avoid all human contact. Too extreme? The social distancing and hand hygiene we are aware of thanks to COVID-19 will also limit the spread of colds.’

TRY A NASAL SPRAY

‘If you have early symptoms of a cold, you could try a nasal spray – but they’re only effective if taken within 48 hours of the first symptoms beginning to show.’ Sprays work by coating the virus so it can’t attach itself to the lining of the nose, and can help flush some of the virus away. Try Boots Dual Defence Nasal Spray (£5.99).

Dr Riccardo Di Cuffa, head GP at Your Doctor (your-doctor. co.uk)

GET OUTSIDE

Contrary to popular belief, it’s not the cold weather that makes us more prone to colds during the winter, but the fact that we spend more time indoors with people who pass on germs. ‘Try to get outside for some fresh air whenever you can. This will also help you get exposure to sunlight, which will increase levels of vitamin D. If the weather’s really awful, open your windows to bring some fresh air in.’

EXERCISE

A healthy lifestyle protects your immune system, and exercise is a large part of that. ‘Exercise can relieve stress which can also detrimentally affect your immune system. Prioritise getting enough sleep and make sure your diet is packed with fruit and vegetables for a mineral, fibre and vitamin boost too.’