Is there anyway of stopping a cough developing?

[Kitsmummy]

I've had a cold now got the start of a dry cough and these always turn into hacking coughs for me.

I've also got a v hot date on Saturday, it's been three weeks since I've seen him and will be another two weeks if I'm ill this weekend!

I am therefore desperate to stop it turning into the usual horrid cough!

Any ideas?

Plenty of fluids and plenty of rest, sorry but no miracle cure, heard that chicken soup helps though.