A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.
It is possible to develop a cold or influenza with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing a cold or influenza. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your healthcare provider what you can do to reduce your risk.
The vast majority of the population in any given area may get colds or influenza during the course of a year. The average rate for adults in the US is three or four infections per person per year. Children get even more.
Risk factors include:
Smoking
Smoking greatly increases the frequency of colds in adults, and smokers are at higher risk for complications from colds and the flu.
Poor Hygiene
Colds and influenza are passed through person-to-person contact, so people who do not wash their hands are at higher risk of spreading and contracting colds or influenza.
Also, touching your nose, mouth, and eyes with contaminated fingers can spread germs to yourself.
Crowded Populations
People in crowded living conditions are at increased risk of cold and influenza infections.
Medical Conditions
People who are sick, especially those with a condition that compromises their immune systems, are at greater risk of complications due to colds and influenza.
Women who are pregnant are also at increased risk of complications.
Age
Children and the elderly are at increased risk for complications.
