How To Stay Healthy When Everyone Around You Is Sick

As a commercial I heard the other day said, "The common cold is anything but." So true, as I continue to fight this bug that's kicking my butt. I've tried the turmeric tea, which is helping some I think, but it's not enough of the relief I'm looking for. And while I try to get better, my next biggest concern is how to interact with my co-workers and keep them from getting sick.

So how do you protect yourself from people like me?

Everyone has an answer for what works and what doesn't. Take for example the antibacterial hand gel. Good solution? YES! And those Vitamin C drinks that might be in your drawer? Not so much. At least according to a recent Shape Magazine article.

Start by checking out this chart.

Their research resulted in this:

• Wearing a surgical mask might work
• “Elbow bumping” instead of shaking hands totally works
• Opening the bathroom door with a paper towel is worthless
• Holding your breath when someone coughs or sneezes is also useless
• Wearing a scough (which I’ve never heard of before) definitely works
• Drinking Vitamin C drinks won’t really help
• Keeping a plant on your desk does help
• Using hand sanitizer and washing your hands frequenty is very effective

So there you have it. Too bad they didn't test some of the "old wives" theories like Vicks on your feet and eating garlic. As for the scough though, I think you might make some very suspicious, like you're about to rob a bank or something...

Best of health to you!