Prophylaxis | Therapy of a cold with household remedies

Prophylaxis

The most effective way to prevent a cold is to avoid contact with the sick (exposure prophylaxis). Shaking hands and touching contaminated objects should be avoided. It is also advisable to wash your hands regularly, as they are important carriers.

To prevent the transmission of adenoviruses, pathogens are sometimes eliminated from the water in swimming pools to prevent an epidemic occurrence. In addition, in order to prevent a cold, it is generally advisable to adopt a healthy lifestyle, which strengthens the body’s overall defenses and makes it less vulnerable to pathogens. A healthy lifestyle includes a balanced diet with all vitamins and minerals, regular exercise, sufficient sleep and little stress.

There is no vaccination against the pathogens that cause colds. An exception is the vaccination against RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), which is intended for premature babies, infants with congenital heart defects or lung changes. Strictly speaking, this is a passive vaccination, since antibodies directed against the virus are administered and protection lasts only for four to six weeks, since during this time all antibodies are “consumed” by virus binding (antigen).