Sneeze much? Conquer unavoidable winter germs this year

During cold and flu season, germs are lurking everywhere and are simply unavoidable. And where there are germs, there can often be sickness. That dreaded first cough, sneeze and sniffle surely brings about anything but joy in the home.

Dr. Nina Shapiro, a leading pediatric doctor and mom of two, shares these tips for keeping families healthy during cough, cold and flu season.

1. Sing the joys of washing hands well.

Washing hands well is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The goal is to wash for 20 seconds, or about the amount of time it takes to sing "Happy Birthday" twice.

2. Wrangle those hands and avoid the nose and mouth.

Spending time with the grandkids? It's important to regularly remind children to keep their hands out of their nose and mouth to help prevent the spread of germs. Seven in 10 school nurses cite unsanitary habits among children, such as nose picking or not washing their hands, as the top cause for germs spreading among kids, according to a recent "Ew-dentification" survey conducted by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare.

3. Be a flu-buster and get vaccinated.

It's likely at some point during the fall and winter season that your grandchildren will come in contact with the flu virus. This year's vaccination is now available, so schedule an office visit for the whole family. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently updated their guidelines requiring children ages 6 months to 8 years to receive two doses of the flu shot this season if they have received less than two doses of the flu vaccine before July 2015.

4. Ease aches and pains and rest, rest, rest.

With flu season upon us, make sure you're armed with an over-the-counter pain reliever and fever reducer. When you're more comfortable, you're able to get the extra rest your body needs to fight off illness.

5. Keep your wellness arsenal fully stocked.

Flu isn't the only sickness you and your family may encounter -- colds, stomach bugs and coughs are also spread frequently. Stock up on cough syrup and cold medicine now so when sickness strikes, you are ready and can feel quick relief -- no emergency trip to the store required.

6. Take a deep breath and use that humidifier.

Every family should have a humidifier to get through the cold and flu season. By adding moisture to dry air, you can breathe easier, particularly at night when you're trying to sleep.