Cold and flu season

The flu and the common cold are conditions commonly affecting the nose and throat, but are caused by different viruses and vary in severity

The flu can develop into a serious health condition and is important that those who are at risk (the elderly, young children, pregnant women) do what they can to prevent them getting sick. Colds are very common, children may get 5-10 colds per year and adults 2-4 colds per year.

Symptoms  Common Cold     Flu

• Body aches/pain               Slight                                             Slight
• Fever                                 Rare                                               Usual (lasts 3-4 days)
• Chest discomfort/cough   Mild to moderate hacking cough  Common - can become severe
• Headache                         Rare                                               Common
• Sneezing                           Common                                         Sometimes
• Extreme Exhaustion         Never                                             Usual at beginning of illness
   

Preventions of cold and flu:

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet
• Wash hands thoroughly
• Avoid crowds and sick people
• Cover mouth and nose when sneezing - use tissue or upper sleeve
• Keep household surfaces clean and throw away any used tissues immediately
• Keep warm and dry

How we can help:

Come and talk with our friendly staff about how how we can help you through the cold and flu season

• Vitamins that may help prevent or treat cold and flu
• Medication to help with symptoms
• Things you can do at home to help prevent spread of infections

Best prevention for the flu is getting your annual flu vaccination - please note this will not prevent you from getting the common cold as this is caused by a different virus

*** Antibiotics only work on bacteria - as cold and flu are caused by a virus these will be of no use in the treatment of these conditions***