TOP 10s
TOP 10s

If you already sneeze into your sleeve, wash your hands diligently, and avoid crowds where these viruses can easily spread, you’re on the right track. But you still may be putting yourself at risk in these unexpected ways—probably without even realizing it.

1-Worrying too much
Research shows that worrying can weaken your immune system. A weak immune system increases your chances to catch a bug, including the swine flu.

2-Hugging, kissing, and shaking hands
Close contact with infected individuals is one of the easiest ways to pick up a virus. If you must shake hands be sure to wash your hands before touching your mouth and eyes.

3-Smoking
Smoking cigarettes weakens the tiny disease-fighting hairs tucked inside nasal passages and the lungs, which trap and dispose of germs. This can leave your body more susceptible to attack.

4-Hitting the gym too hard
Some behaviors that in moderate amounts keep you healthy can actually weaken your immune system when taken to the extreme. The gym is also a great place to pick up a virus from a sweaty treadmill or in the changing room.

5- Drinking alcohol
Drinking lots during flu season could leave you with more than a hangover since alcohol actually weakens the immune system.

6- Relying solely on antibacterial gel
Alcohol-based antibacterial gel should not be used instead of soap and water, but only when a sink is unavailable.

7- Washing hands incorrectly
Whistle “Happy Birthday” twice while scrubbing all surfaces on hands and between fingers, and dry hands completely. Turn off the faucet and open the bathroom door with a paper towel to keep hands clean.

8- Mishandling a face mask
“Masks accumulate the virus,” says Barry. “You’d have to be extremely careful taking the mask off. Make sure the mask doesn’t brush against your nose or mouth or eyes; throw it out, and definitely wash your hands after.” Remove the mask by the straps or strings in the back so you avoid touching the front of the mask, which will be the most contaminated.

9- Taking flu drugs prematurely
In the midst of the swine flu panic, some patients have rushed to stock up on antiviral medications like Tamiflu. The majority of people won’t need these drugs—ever—and taking them unnecessarily could increase the risk that the virus will become resistant to these medicines.

10- Worrying too little
This may seem to contradict risk factor No. 1, but, in fact, the healthiest approach to flu season is to take a position somewhere between panic and indifference.

According to Health.com