By Barbara Stewart
Contributing Writer

As you head toward your favorite jam-packed shopping mall or crowded store this holiday season, be sure not to pick up the gift that keeps on giving - the gift of the dreaded flu virus. Notoriously known as the annual “cold and flu season,” winter is the favorite time of the year for those Grinch-like germs to ambush unsuspecting victims, hoping to put a damper on their celebrations. Your first line of defense, of course, is an annual flu shot (it’s still not too late to get one). In addition, if you follow some simple rules, you just might be able to celebrate the season without sneezing.

n Wash your hands often. Use the hottest water that you can stand and lather up with soap. Take at least 30 seconds to wash the front and backs of your hands and in between each finger. Pretend you are about to remove a gallbladder. Scrub your hands completely then rinse thoroughly under hot water and dry with a paper towel. Hold on to that paper towel and use it to turn off the faucet, open the bathroom door, turn off the light – and then toss it.

n Carry hand sanitizer with you at all times. It is like garlic to vampires and silver bullets to werewolves. Especially handy when you are away from home, a squirt of sanitizer can save the day by blasting away those nasty bugs who would like to go home with you and celebrate the season with your family.

n Stay away from people who have colds. You will recognize them by their red, runny noses and watery eyes. They are usually carrying a box of tissues in each hand. Under no circumstance should you shake hands or give them a holiday hug. If they happen to be your children, forget Rule #3 and just make chicken soup.

n Stay at home if you are ill. Germs can spread faster than holiday cheer at the work place. Telephones and computer keyboards are favorite hiding places for these germs. Everyone should keep an arsenal of alcohol wipes in their desk drawer for protection.

n Cover your mouth if you sneeze or cough. If you think fast enough, sneeze into a tissue or even into the upper part of your sleeve – and then use a hand sanitizer and dry cleaner as fast as you can. Viruses that are air-borne get around faster and cover more square feet per second than the kind you find on a door knob.

n Always keep your hands away from your face, eyes and mouth. No need to help the germs locate their designated targets.

n Avoid holiday stress and get enough sleep. Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious meals. You can always start that diet after the holidays.

“Just following these simple suggestions can help you have a healthy and happy holiday season,” said Dr. Robert P. Morin Jr., a board certified family practitioner at the Alamo City Medical Group in Castle Hills. “Flu shots,” he emphasizes, “are very important this year, but remember, it takes two weeks after the injection before the vaccine kicks in.”