In the winter, immunity is put to the test. To prevent germs and prevent infections, colds and other seasonal diseases such as flu or gastroenteritis, here are some practical tips to keep in mind.

Microbes: red alert in public transport

The more frequent a place is, the greater the probability of crossing an infectious agent. In transit (train, metro and bus), the threat is higher than on the street, due to crowded rush hours and low air exchange rates.

In an outbreak of nasopharyngitis , gastroenteritis, and influenza, do not touch the grab bars that are clutched by hundreds of potentially infected people. Or grab them with a disposable tissue and do not put your fingers in your mouth afterwards. Similarly, beware of the door handles of collective toilets: they are likely to carry many pathogenic bacteria .

Wash your hands regularly to prevent infection

"The hands are the first vectors of microbial contamination," says Dr. Frédéric Saldmann, author of "We wash our hands" (Flammarion ed). Washing them thoroughly reduces the incidence of respiratory and digestive infections by 30%. "

Therefore, systematically rub them on your way home, out of the bathroom and before going to the table, with a hydroalcoholic gel or simply with warm water and soap. It is a basic gesture of hygiene which is unfortunately more and more neglected. According to Inpes *, only 20% of French people spontaneously mention washing their hands as a means of protecting themselves from respiratory infections of the winter.

Avoid shaking hands to limit contamination

"Wearing a paper mask is useless, but limit handshakes," says Dr. Frédéric Saldmann. In fact, a person with a flu has a 70% chance of spreading viruses on his fingers ".

A kiss is hardly more reasonable to guard against angina and flu. The best solution: to greet oneself at a distance, like the famous Ugh of the Indians of America or the Japanese-style contactless greeting.

Air to eliminate viruses

Confined spaces are real nests for microbes . To reduce the concentration of viruses in suspension, it is therefore important to renew indoor air. The best: open the windows in a few minutes morning and evening, even if it's cold outside.

Also beware of postilions. Projected at 150 km / h, they scatter in the air droplets particularly at risk. A paradise for microbes! And, of course, do not lend your electronic cigarette or mobile phone or cutlery to the table. Worn from mouth to mouth, they can become serious reservoirs of germs . Clean them regularly with a disposable wipe, just like switches and remote controls.

Also limit tobacco. As it irritates the mucous membranes, it weakens the respiratory system and thus increases your vulnerability to infections of the ENT and pulmonary spheres.

* National Institute of Prevention and Health Education.