Healthy tips during cold season

It's definitely not the most pleasant topic to think about, but with so many family members in such close quarters it's easy to spread more than holiday cheer, like sickness. That's why a few key things could help keep your entire family healthy this year.

Holidays certainly bring families together, but it's also an easy way to exchange germs. That's why
Lauri Smithee, a lecturer at the University of Oklahoma College of Public Health, came up with five easy tips.

Wash your hands before eating, going to the restroom, changing diapers and blowing your nose.

Carry hand sanitizer. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, not antibacterial ones, are good substitutes until you get to a location where you can wash your hands.

Watch what you touch. Try to avoid touching things like bathroom door handles, escalator rails, elevator buttons and pens at checkout counters.

Stay home. When you start to feel bad, skip work, church or school. Being in public areas like these are the times you are most contagious.

Stay alert when traveling. Get all recommended traveler's immunizations in plenty of time for your trip abroad. Don't drink untreated water. If you become ill when you return home, tell your doctor where you've been.