The body has a hard time getting through the winter without getting sick, especially if you don't help prevent sickness. Do not fret, the following are five things you can do to avoid getting sick this winter. 

Personal Lifestyle Changes 
It may be a good idea to change the lifestyle of your family, at least through the winter. For example, discourage everyone to touch their eyes, nose, or mouth during the winter as much as possible because fingers have a lot of bacteria on them. It may also be a good idea to increase vitamin and probiotic intake. 

Control the Temperature 
Do your best to ensure that your home has an upgraded central air system that can help everyone stay comfortable. One thing that is important is that you ensure that the humidity in your home is normal. Dry air can lead to sicknessbecause it takes moisture from the nasal passages, which makes you vulnerable. 

Take a Medical Trip 
It may not be something you or your family love doing, but it is important that you visit your doctor at this time. All you are doing is taking a preventative step to stay healthy. Your doctor can help pinpoint vitamin deficiencies and may even recommend a few immunization shots if anyone in your family needs them. 

Upgrade Your Hot Water System 
You may not think you need a hot water plumber at the moment, but one can ensure that you stay healthy throughout this winter. The last thing you or anyone in your family wants to experience is a cold shower during those chilly days, which can make the body more susceptible to sickness. Hot showers and Epson salt baths are also a great way to open up sinuses when you get sick. If you have an outdated heating system you may not have enough hot water for your family’s needs. Give your plumber a call as soon as you can to make sure this won't happen this winter. 

Deal With the Drafts 
It is easy to overlook drafts in your home, especially if they are small, so you need to do your best to ensure you do not have this problem. Drafts can let cool air into your home, which could also make you susceptible to sickness. You want to have a home inspector make sure your window seals are in good condition, and you want to make sure you have no cracks or holes around your home. Thermal isolated curtains can help control the temperature in your home and reduce drafts.

These are just some of the steps a family can take to stay healthy during the winter. It would be a shame to wake up sick and have to deal with a cold during these chilly months.