While according to the Emerson Collge Center for Health and Wellness Web site, there is no sure way to prevent the cold or flu, there are some general precautions that can help lower your chances of contracting an illness.,Combating illnesses this winter might not be as difficult as one may think.

While according to the Emerson Collge Center for Health and Wellness Web site, there is no sure way to prevent the cold or flu, there are some general precautions that can help lower your chances of contracting an illness.

The center suggests students wash their hands often and keep their stress level down.

The Web site said that by avoiding long-term stress, students can prevent the flu and common cold. Those who are prone to stress, as well as individuals who partake in smoking or who have friends who smoke, are more likely to catch a cold or the

flu, the center said.

“If you have been thinking of quitting smoking, now is a good time to stop,” said Jane Powers, director of the center.

Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze will help prevent the spread of illness as well, as germs are spread through droplets from sneezes, said Nurse Marilyn Cook of Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates. Cook also suggested that students wipe down communal telephones in offices