For those who have already experienced the flu or a cold this season, you're probably dreading the thought of another bout with illness before the cold and flu season ends. And for those who've avoided sickness thus far, you're not out of the woods just yet. There's still significant time left in the cold and flu season, so continue to be on your guard.

In either case, prevention for the rest of the cold and flu season is key. But if you're one who works in the typically close quarters of an office environment, prevention doesn't always seem so easy.

Here are a few prevention tips to help keep you healthy and happy at your office throughout the rest of the cold and flu season.

Wash your hands. You've heard it a million times, but we can't emphasize this enough. Wash your hands thoroughly and often if you want to stay healthy.

When do you need to wash your hands? Wash them after trips to the restroom, after shaking hands, before and after preparing and eating snacks or lunch, after sneezing or coughing, and after handling any garbage or waste. When in doubt, wash your hands!

To clean your hands properly, you must wash them with soap and running water, or cleanse them with a hand sanitizer.

To wash with soap and water, you need to wet your hands, then apply soap and lather throughly for 20 seconds. Make sure to clean between your fingers, under your fingernails, and on the back of your hands. When finished, rinse hands well and dry with a paper towel or under an air dryer. If possible, turn off the faucet and open the bathroom door to exit using paper towels instead of your bare hands.

While hand washing is the preferred method to rid your hands of germs, you can also use a hand sanitizer. Be sure to use a sanitizer that's at least 60 percent alcohol. Apply the hand sanitizer to your palm, then rub your hands together, thoroughly scrubbing all parts, until the hand sanitizer dries.

Sanitize your desk. In addition to washing your hands, you can also help keep your hands free of excess germs by sanitizing your desk and office supplies.

Take time to use disinfectant wipes to thoroughly wipe off your desk surface, keyboard, desk phone and cell phone, stapler, computer mouse, headset, copier, and other surfaces. 

Keep your distance. If at all possible, steer clear of co-workers who are experiencing coughs or sniffles.

Take care of yourself at home. On top of all these things, take your illness prevention a step further by taking care of yourself on your off time. That means staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and providing yourself with proper nutrition. Equipped with these tools, your body will be much better prepared to keep sickness at bay.

For any other questions about keeping yourself well during cold and flu season, contact your doctor.