Because so many different viruses can cause a common cold, no effective vaccine has been developed. But you can take some common-sense precautions to slow the spread of cold viruses:

Wash your hands. Clean your hands thoroughly and often, and teach your children the importance of hand washing. Carry a bottle of alcohol-based hand rub containing at least 60 percent alcohol for times when soap and water aren't available. These gels kill most germs, and are safe for older children to use themselves.

Scrub your stuff. Keep kitchen and bathroom countertops clean, especially when someone in your family has a common cold. Wash children's toys after play.

Use tissues. Always sneeze and cough into tissues. Discard used tissues right away, and then wash your hands carefully. Teach children to sneeze or cough into the bend of their elbow when they don't have a tissue. That way they cover their mouth without using their hands.

Be a little selfish. Don't share drinking glasses or utensils with other family members. Use your own glass or disposable cups when you or someone else is sick.

Steer clear of colds. Avoid close, prolonged contact with anyone who has a cold.

Choose your childcare center wisely. Look for a childcare setting with sound hygiene practices and clear policies about keeping sick children at home.

Consider the alternatives. Whether therapies such as vitamin C, zinc and echinacea relieve cold symptoms remains controversial. But the latest research seems to show that moderate doses of vitamin C can shorten the duration of a cold and that zinc nasal sprays or lozenges taken at the beginning of a cold may help reduce symptoms.