In the prevention department, hand washing, good health, fresh air, exercise, proper nutrition and sunshine are the best ways to prevent just about anything.However, when one doesn't eat right or what-have-you then some vitamin supplements can definitely help a little. Oh, and it is reputed that echinachea (if taken at the right time can help people avoid colds. It is available in a couple forms from health food shops and natural remedy departments of other stores. Personally I've not had much luck with echinachea but many people I know swear by it.However, despite everyone's best efforts, we all get colds at one time or another and seek relief. Since modern medicine has yet to find a cure, the only way is to go for non-rescriptions stuff that masks the symptoms and/or some natural remedies that lack side effects and actually help your own system beat the bugs. Of course staying home in bed (so you get rest and I don't catch your cold) and drinking lots of fluids don't hurt at all either.