With regards to the flu, the best way to prevent the spread of the flu is through vaccination. However, there are also additional steps one should take to protect their health and the health of their loved ones. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by avoiding close contact with people who are ill or show flu-like symptoms, and this also applies to all sick individuals to keep themselves isolated to prevent the spread of the disease. In addition, one must remember to cover their their mouth and nose when coughing, doing so help prevent the flue virus from spreading. One must also keep their hands from their face as much as possible, since one of the common modes of transmission of the flu is through contact with flu contaminated hands. Some individuals might wonder whether or not homeopathic remedies should be used to help prevent the flu, however, it must be pointed out that there is no scientific evidence or studies that promote herbal or homeopathic remedies as being beneficial in protecting against the flu. Interestingly enough, studies have shown that the flu virus could survive on surfaces for 2 to 8 hours, thus, it is best to get in the habit of washing your hands often to lower the chance of contracting the flu virus. If done correctly, rubbing the hands with alcohol containing gels and wipes until dry is an effective method in destroying the flu virus that remains viable on surfaces. In addition, chemicals that contain chlorine, detergents, and other antiseptics work well in destroying the virus effectively.http://www3.niaid.nih.gov/topics/Flu/understandingFlu/Prevention.htm
