The much-publicised scare from the HINI virus is just the latest pestilence facing mankind. Though relatively few people have been infected worldwide and even smaller numbers have actually died, our health authorities have reacted promptly, and with good cause. In the 20th century alone, millions of people died from just three new viruses. From 1918-1919 the Spanish flu killed 50 million. In 1957 one million died from the Asian flu, and in 1968 the Hong Kong flu took out one million more human beings.

But modern medicine, the very system that is supposed to protect us, may be contributing to these epidemics. In 2000, there were two million nosocomial infections in the United States. A nosocomial infection is one that you get after you go into a hospital for some other health problem. In that year alone, 103,000 persons died from those infections because these hospital-grown superbugs were resistant to all the antibiotics available. Some experts contend that the increasing appearance of these extremely virulent germs is related to the widespread and often indiscriminate use of antibiotics in humans and, even more, in the livestock and poultry industries. We have developed into a society that breeds supergerms. This threat may be more serious that the danger of biological warfare from terrorists.

History records a strong correlation between famine and infections and between malnutrition and plagues. Today, while undernutrition in sub-Saharan Africa fans the flames of the HIV epidemic, over-nutrition, another form of malnutrition, may well be encouraging these troublesome germs in the rest of the world.

YOUR DEFENCE FORCE - THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

The usual first response to the threat of an epidemic is to employ strategies to avoid the germ. But not everyone exposed to a germ comes down with an infection. Among those who do get infected, some have very few symptoms while others get severely ill and may even die. What is the difference in these individuals? The difference is in the state of their immune system.

The human body has its own defence system designed to protect it against infections - the immune system. The immune system is one of the most complex and sophisticated systems in the body. A weak immune system sets the stage for infections. Here are some simple lifestyle habits that can help optimise your immune system and increase your resistance to these agents.

EAT RIGHT

Consume more than five servings of fruit and vegetables daily. They contain phytonutrients that help immune function. Research shows that enough healthy protein is also very necessary. Avoid sugars, excess starches, heavily processed foods, additives and preservatives. I recommend a food supplement plan called cellular nutrition.

USE ANTIOXIDANTS

Antioxidants are substances that protect the cells of the immune system from damage from free radicals. Popular antioxidants include vitamins A, C, E and selenium (the ACES). For an impending viral infection, I find high doses of vitamin C, orally and by intravenous infusion, particularly useful. Herbal antioxidants are pycnogenol, schizandra, rosemary, echinacea, garlic, medicinal mushrooms, and green tea. Glutathione and omega-3 fats will also enhance your immunity.

KEEP CLEAN

Good internal and external hygiene is very important. Minimise your exposure to toxins such as highly processed foods, drugs - legal and illegal - polluted air and water and some synthetic personal-care items. Regular hand washing is as important as regular bathing. Holistic health practitioners often recommend various detoxification programmes.

GET ENOUGH SUNSHINE

Vitamin D is very important to immune function and your body makes it free from sunshine. Try to have a daily half an hour sunbath in the morning or late afternoon sun. The darker your skin, the more sunshine you need to make enough vitamin D.

SLEEP WELL

Enough restful sleep restores the immune system. A darkened, cool, quiet room and a comfortable bed will enhance sleep. If you are not sleeping well, do not just restore to sleeping tablets. try to identify and treat the underlying cause.

MANAGE STRESS

Chronic stress wears down the immune system. Try to manage your stress with regular exercise, yoga, deep breathing and relaxation techniques. I also use fish oils, B vitamins, adaptogenic herbs like ginseng and rhodiola and the glyconutrients found in aloe vera.

THINK POSITIVELY

Your state of mind affects your immune system. Research shows that depressed, negative thinking weakens and inhibits the immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections. Focus on solutions more than problems and let go of fear. Faith, prayers and a good spiritual support system all enhance immune function.

You may email Dr Anthony Vendryes at vendryes@mac.com, or listen to An Ounce of Prevention on POWER 106 FM on Fridays at 8 p.m. The programme streams live on go-jamaica.com.

Your state of mind affects your immune system. Research shows that depressed, negative thinking weakens and inhibits the immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections.