In order to properly explain how viruses are spread, and therefore prevented, I have to say gross words like mucus and saliva. Eww. I do apologize! So, back to the point, viruses are spread through mucus and saliva that is propelled into the air when an infected person sneezes or coughs and an uninfected person breathes in the air born virus. Or, if an infected person coughs or sneezes into their hands and then touches a door knob, or the office printer, or a phone leaving a path of virus cooties behind them for someone else to touch.

The common cold virus usually shows annoying, but mild symptoms such as a sore throat, runny nose, cough / congestion, watery eyes, and maybe a fever.

The sure sign of the flu (Influenza) is severe head, body and muscle aches, along with shortness of breath, cough, fatigue and perhaps a fever and chills.

I’m sure I don’t even have to mention getting the flu shot, because you’ve all gotten it already, right? Of course you have! However, the flu shot, while it is vital, isn’t 100% guaranteed to fend off the flu bug. So, besides the flu shot, take extra care to not touch your mouth or face. Thoroughly wash your hands and do so OFTEN. Keep hand sanitizer handy for the times you are unable to wash them with soap and water. And, of course, do not share drinks or food, clean countertops, desks, phones, etc. regularly, and always sneeze or cough into your elbow rather than your hand.