Clean hands and zinc supplements offer best protection against common cold

摘要

EVIDENCE supports the use of hand-washing and zinc supplements to prevent a common cold, according to a literature review published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (online, 27 January 2014). However, remedies such as garlic, ginseng, vapour rub and vitamin C show little benefit. The authors assessed evidence from randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews relating to 11 interventions for prevention of the common cold. The best evidence supports physical interventions, such as hand-washing and use of alcohol-based disinfectants and hand wipes, for reducing the risk of getting or spreading upper respiratory tract infections.