If you are old enough you may remember the lowly handkerchief. Little squares of cloth that were carried by men and women and used to protect the health of others.
Along with the handkerchief were protocols, one of which involved excusing yourself, finding a place where others were not down range and giving a solid blow of the nose. Coughs were similarly dealt with. Clean handkerchiefs were used to dry eyes and clear away sniffles.
All practices which slowed the spread.