While ailments such as influenza and the common cold are usually not life-threatening, they can put a damper on your plans and make you feel like hiding under the covers. Furthermore, because these viruses are quite contagious, you'll want to do everything you can to avoid them.

The bird flu is another virus that has become a concern. Although this potentially deadly ailment has not reached the United States yet, it's important to know all the facts so that you can help prevent its spread.

The flu is a nasty virus, but there are ways to prevent it.
©2006 Publications International, Ltd.
The flu is a nasty virus that will drive you straight to your bed.
Fortunately, however, there are several ways to prevent it.

The following article covers the flu, the common cold, and the bird flu. Here's a preview:

  • Preventing the Flu
    There are three different types of influenza viruses that cause the flu: A, B, and C. In this section, you'll learn about each type. You'll also find out about the symptoms of the flu and what you can do to avoid catching the virus. Finally, we'll tell you about the benefits of getting a flu shot and what types of medications can be used to treat the infection. To arm yourself with the information you need to stave off the flu -- or to make it a little less debilitating if you get it -- you'll want to read this page.

  • Preventing the Common Cold
    Did you know there are more than 200 common cold viruses lingering out there for you to catch? While that may sound frightening and overwhelming, the good news is that you can use the same preventative measures to try to avoid all of them. The other good news is that once you have had a virus strain, you develop an immunity to that particular strain for the rest of your life. One down...199 to go! See this page for more handy tips on how to prevent the common cold.

  • Preventing the Bird Flu
    The bird flu, or avian influenza, is a potentially deadly virus that members of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are concerned could become an epidemic. Because of these concerns, you need to take whatever preventative measures necessary to keep this virus contained and away from you and your family. Thankfully, most of the prevention tips are the same as they are for colds and influenza, so you're probably already doing the right things. Go to this page to learn everything you need to know about the bird flu.
This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.