Final answer:
Precautions against the flu, which is more severe than a cold, include vaccination, hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, wearing masks, and taking antiviral medications if prescribed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that is more severe than the common cold and can lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia and even death. Precautions that one might take to protect against the flu, that may not be as necessary for a cold, include getting an annual flu vaccine, practicing good hand hygiene with disinfectants and detergents, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, wearing masks, and potentially taking antiviral medications if prescribed by a healthcare provider. Due to the higher risks associated with influenza, especially for vulnerable populations such as the very young, elderly, or those with compromised immune systems, these precautions are important in preventing the spread of the virus and protecting individuals from severe illness.