People are more likely to get sick when the temperature drops. Cold weather means more people stay inside whether it's home, work or school.
"It's a breeding ground for illnesses," says Dr. Steve Osborn at Doctors Express in Roanoke
Doctors in Roanoke have seen early cases of flu and plenty of stomach problems.
"We're seeing more and more coughing which is more bronchitis, some sinus infections," says Dr. Osborn, "We're seeing some strep throat. We've seen a handful of influenza."
Here are some ways to avoid getting sick:
*Wash your hands frequently
*Don't touch your mouth or nose without washing your hands
*Get enough sleep
*Drink plenty of water
*Avoid sick people
Many people carry hand sanitizers with them. We asked Dr. Steve Osborn to weigh in.
"The sanitizers can be helpful because of the alcohol in it can kill the viruses but it's going to allow you to totally avoid the illnesses," says Dr. Osborn.
That's because many illnesses are airborne. You can catch something from people coughing or sneezing.
"It's almost impossible to totally avoid it unless you're never around people," says Dr. Osborn.
If you do get a cold, Dr. Osborn says you don't need to see a doctor unless it gets worse. But the flu is different.
"If you've got a fever you should be home you know bottom line," says Dr. Osborn.
This advice isn't just for adults but children too. It's important for them to wash their hands.
The Centers for Disease Control recommend that children sing Happy Birthday twice while washing up.
