Did you know that there are more than 200 different viruses that cause the common cold? And that each new strain of the flu leads to more than 200,000 Americans being hospitalized each year?

The good news is there are steps you can take to help stop the spread of germs — not just during cold and flu season, but all year round.

Clean hands, healthier you

Viruses that cause colds can live on your hands, and regular hand-washing can help protect you from getting sick. Make proper handwashing a habit.

• Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds and help children do the same.
• If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based hand gel or sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Disinfect areas you often touch at home, work and school.

Cover coughs and sneezes

A single sneeze can spray 100,000 germs into the air. So, use a tissue if you have one, and throw it away when you’re done. Don’t have a tissue handy? Cough or sneeze into your upper arm or elbow area. Covering your mouth and nose during coughs and sneezes helps contain germs and protects others around you.

Other tips

• Stay home when you’re sick, if you can. The more you limit your contact with others, the less chance you have of spreading germs.
• If you have a fever, try to limit your contact with others for at least 24 hours after your fever has ended. Let your body rest and recover before resuming your regular routine.