2. Children normally get more colds than adults. [True—False]

3. Colds and flu are caused by bacteria. [True—False]

4. Colds can be effectively treated with antibiotics. [True—False]

5. Prescription medications are the only effective medicines that work on cold and flu. [True—False]

6. You should always take medication to stop a cough that comes with a cold or flu. [True—False]

7. Decongestants can be used to relieve a cough. [True—False]

8. Pain-relief or cold products that contain aspirin should never be given to children under 19 years of age. [True—False]

Answers:

1. False. While you should do all you can to keep healthy—eating nutritious foods, getting enough sleep and exercising regularly—walking in the rain or going out in the cold with wet hair won't give you a cold.
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2. True. It is not unusual for a child to get five to eight colds a year, while the average adult gets only three or four. That's because children haven't yet built up the immunity to viruses that adults have, and they are also exposed to a greater variety of illnesses at school or in day care.
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3. False. Colds can be caused by any of more than 200 viruses called rhinoviruses that spread through mucus secretions and coughs and sneezes. The flu is caused by various strains of the influenza virus and is spread basically the same way. It can be more serious for infants, the elderly, and people with chronic diseases. That's why the flu vaccine is recommended for people over 65; people with asthma, heart disease or diabetes; and people who work in healthcare and are frequently exposed to the flu virus.
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4. False. Antibiotics are effective for the treatment of bacterial infections, not viral infections. Since colds and flu are caused by viruses, antibiotics are not effective in relieving symptoms or shortening the duration of the Colds or Flu.
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5. False. There are over-the-counter medications that relieve the symptoms of both cold and flu.
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6. False. If your cough is productive, meaning that you are coughing up mucus, don't try to completely stop it. Your body needs to get rid of that mucus. A nonprescription cough medicine with an expectorant, such as Robitussin^®, will help by keeping the mucus secretions liquid and easily expelled.
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7. False. Decongestants are meant to relieve stuffy, congested noses, not coughs. Unless your cough is caused by postnasal drip (a drip down the back of your throat), avoid decongestants. Nonprescription cough medicines which contain guaifenesin and dextromethorphan, such as Robitussin^® DM, can relieve your cough while they loosen the mucus, making it easier to expel.
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8. True. Aspirin has been associated with Reye's Syndrome, a potentially fatal condition, and should not be given to children. Nonprescription ibuprofen, such as Children's Advil^®, is an effective reliever of the fever and minor aches and pains caused by colds and flu and is safe for children.
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Colds and flu are caused by viruses that spread from person to person. Try these simple steps to help keep you and your family healthier.

	Exercise regularly, eat nutritious foods, and get enough sleep.
	Wash your hands often, especially during the peak cold and flu seasons (late winter and early spring). You can pick up a cold from a handshake, the telephone, even money.
	Avoid touching the moist areas of your eyes, nose and mouth.
	Avoid sharing cups, glasses or utensils among family members, especially during peak cold and flu seasons.

While you have a cold or flu…

	Always place your hand over your mouth when you sneeze—and wash your hands before you touch another person.
	Use paper tissues instead of cloth handkerchiefs to avoid giving the virus to others.
	Drink plenty of fluids, especially if you have a fever. Liquids are also soothing to a dry, irritated throat and may help relieve coughing.
	Get adequate rest in a well-ventilated room.
	Use a cold-mist vaporizer to increase the humidity in the air-that will help loosen mucus and relieve a dry throat. (Be sure to clean the vaporizer after each use.)