The Canadian Press: Lots of rest, good diet could help prevent infection with swine flu

"Here are a few tips to help prevent infection with H1N1 influenza and to lessen the impact if you do get sick:

-Get lots of rest. Eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet. Vitamin supplements, especially vitamins A, C and D, can help boost the immune system. Exercise regularly.

'Anything that helps our immune systems stay robust helps prevent us getting infected with any disease,' says Dr. Bonnie Henry, an infectious disease expert at the B.C. Centre for Disease Control. 'So the whole healthy lifestyle does help prevent you from getting sicker and in some cases can prevent you getting sick in the first place.'

-Do not smoke. Tobacco use makes a person more vulnerable to respiratory infections, including influenza.

-Wash hands with soap and water frequently. Use alcohol-based gel if soap and water are not available.

-Avoiding crowded environments like theatres, malls and public transit, if possible, could help prevent exposure to swine flu."