Respiratory infections are infections that impact your lungs and can trigger symptoms ranging from mild to serious. Some of the common respiratory infections are cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and COVID-19.

1. Wash Your Hands Regularly

The most significant way of preventing respiratory infections is by practicing good hand hygiene. You should make a habit of washing your hands regularly with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

2. Avoid Close Contact with Sick People

You should avoid close contact with people who are sick, especially those who have a cough or a runny nose. This will help minimize your risk of contracting respiratory infections.

3. Wear a Mask

Wearing a mask, especially when you’re in a crowded place or in close proximity to people, can help reduce the spread of germs and viruses. The proper way of wearing a mask is by covering your nose and mouth, and making sure it fits snugly on your face.

N95 masks, while popular, should be reserved for medical practitioners.

4. Practice Respiratory Etiquette

When you cough or sneeze, it is recommended that you cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow, rather than your hand. This practice will help minimize the spread of respiratory infections to others.

5. Keep Your Surroundings Clean

To prevent respiratory infections, you should keep your surroundings clean.

This includes wiping down surfaces with disinfectant, washing your linens frequently, and avoiding sharing personal items like drinking cups and utensils, as well as towels and clothing.

6. Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise has been shown to improve your immune system and reduce your risk of contracting respiratory infections. With a strong immune system, your body is much better equipped to fight off germs and viruses.

7. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is essential to your overall health, including maintaining a strong immune system to keep respiratory infections at bay. It is recommended that adults should get at least seven hours of sleep per night.

8. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated is important for your immune system, as well as combating the symptoms of respiratory infections if you do happen to get sick.

9. Boost Your Immune System

There are many ways to boost your immune system, including eating a healthy diet high in vitamins and minerals, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress levels in your life.

You may also consider taking vitamins and supplements that contain immune-boosting ingredients like vitamin C, zinc, and echinacea.

10. Get Vaccinated

Vaccines are one of the most effective ways of preventing respiratory infections. This includes seasonal flu vaccines, pneumonia vaccines, and the COVID-19 vaccine.