Acute rhinitis is known as the common cold because it is just that—common. Reflect back on the times when you’ve gotten a cold. What precautions did you take, how long did the cold last, and were you able to keep from passing it to others? If so, how? What advice would you give to a parent who was attempting to help their child avoid getting colds?

1. The virus can be spread via droplet from a sick person talking, coughing and sneezing. It is thus important to cover the mouth with tissue that should be discarded right away. If there is no available tissue, coughing or sneezing into upper sleeve is preferred than into the hands.

2. If the infected person touches his nose and mouth, the virus can also be spread by hand-to-hand contact . Frequent and proper hand washing will help in preventing the spread of common cold.

3. Avoid sharing utensils, towels, phones or any object that may be contaminated from virus from nose and mouth of the infected person. Disinfect things with disinfectant.

Advice to parent who wants the child to avoid getting colds:

Kids age 6 and younger have a higher risk of getting common colds. In addition to the usual precautions, it is important for parents to:

1. Make sure the children are eating well and getting enough rest. Good health will keep sickness at bay.

2. Choose child care center that has good hygiene practices and with a policy that advises kids that are sick to stay at home/hospital.

3. Frequently disinfector wash toys and other objects that the child may touch or put in the mouth.

4. Educate other family members and care givers about proper hygiene and follow precautions when sick with common cold.