The cooler months are now upon us, and this time of year we can be prone to colds & flu.  We can however start to prevent cold & flu symptoms NOW by;

• Boosting our Immune System using supplements such as multivitamins, Vitamin C, Echinacea, Garlic, Zinc & Olive Leaf Extract
• Eating plenty of wholesome vegetables
• Minimising contact with people who have already got a cold
• Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap or use hand sanitizer gels
• QUIT SMOKING and avoid passive smoke
• Getting adequate rest

Colds & flu are caused by infection with a virus and commonly affect our nose, throat and chest (respiratory tract).  Cold and flu viruses are always changing – this season’s cold or flu viruses will probably be different from last season’s.  This is why you can get a new cold or flu each year.  Vaccine’s for flu prevention are now available, but currently in short supply. If you are in need of a flu vaccination, please discuss further with your GP or our Pharmacist team for up-to-date information of supply.

The spread of colds & flu is caused by touch, sneezing, coughing or breathing.  Droplets from sneezing or breathing are most common, so washing your hands after you sneeze or cough is highly recommended.  If you must cough cover your mouth (especially if you already have a cold/flu).

Taking vitamins and herbs as a measure in preventing colds & flu is highly recommended, especially for families with school age children who are exposed to so many viral and bacterial infections.  Small children are expected to have approximately
5-10 colds per year, so the development of strong immune systems in children is imperative, as it will determine how their bodies recover from infection and then re-strengthen their immune system after recovery.

How will I know if it’s the flu or just the common cold?

The flu comes on more quickly and makes you feel much worse.  People with the flu usually have a fever and lots of aches and pains.  Like the common cold, the flu usually gets better on it’s own, however, people who are elderly or have chronic health conditions should consider immunization as they can develop life threatening complications from the flu.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have the following, please see your doctor;

• Breathlessness or chest pain
• An increase in asthma symptoms
• Ear-ache or facial ache
• Rusty coloured or blood-stained phlegm
• High fever (38 degrees or more) for more than one day
• Cough for >1 week