Victorians can take a number of basic actions to minimise catching or spreading coughs and colds.

'Handwashing is the single most effective way to reduce the spread of germs that cause respiratory disease,' Victoria's Chief Health Officer Dr Robert Hall said.

'Proper hand washing is a simple, yet proven way of reducing the spread of germs that can lead to illness, visits to the doctor and absences from work.

'Handwashing should be second nature to everyone, especially at key times such as before eating, after going to the toilet, after handling pets and changing nappies.

'Adopting a cough etiquette can also minimise the spread of influenza like illnesses.

'People should cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, especially in confined spaces such as public transport, theatres and at crowded sporting events.

'After coughing or sneezing, used tissues should be disposed of properly,' Dr Hall said.

Handwashing is a simple step-by-step process:

•          Wet hands with warm water and apply soap;

•          Lather for 10 to 15 seconds;

•          Rinse hands under running water;

•          Dry hands with a clean towel;

•          During the lather, pay particular attention to the backs of hands and fingers, fingernails, fingertips and the webbing between fingers.

Flu sufferers should avoid public places and close contact with others, especially children.

This includes not going to work, shopping, to school or any mass gathering when ill and avoiding sharing cups and cutlery with others.

Symptoms of the flu include sudden fever, headache, muscle aches and pains, fatigue, cough, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose.

The virus can cause a mild or severe illness depending on the type of influenza virus and the age and general health of the affected person.

It may take three days to show flu symptoms and symptoms may last up to a week.

The flu and other winter coughs and colds are easily spread through tiny droplets that are released through talking, coughing and sneezing.

The droplets containing the virus may infect someone else by coming into contact with their eyes, mouth or nose.

These droplets can also land on and contaminate surfaces, such as tables, cups, pens and toys.

Someone else may then become infected by handling the contaminated object and then touching eyes, nose or mouth.