Primary prevention of respiratory diseases requires reducing your personal exposure to common risk factors, starting from the time of pregnancy, through childhood and adulthood. Some steps to protect yourself are:

Avoiding cigarette smoke (quitting smoking yourself, or avoiding second-hand smoke) is one of the most important steps that one can take to reduce respiratory infections. Avoiding direct and indirect exposure to tobacco smoke is of primary importance not only for healthier lungs, but as a preventative measure for cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes.

Hand washing is the best way to stop the spread of many infections - if someone in the family has a common cold or influenza, all members of the family and those in contact with the concerned person should wash their hands frequently.

Immunization against influenza (yearly) and pneumonia is very effective and safe.

Prevent upper respiratory tract infections by avoiding touching ones eyes, nose, and mouth, which may spread the virus on to the hands, if in contact.

Other shared risk factors that should be addressed include low birth weight, poor nutrition, acute respiratory infections of early childhood, indoor and outdoor air pollutants, and occupational risk factors.