Lockdowns and restrictions may well be behind us, but COVID-19 is still rampant in the community – alongside the common cold and a nasty flu. With winter upon us, it’s important we all do our best to protect our health and stop the spread of illness.
Get the flu vaccine
Getting the flu vaccine is a great way to arm yourself (no pun intended) against the flu this winter, so speak to your GP and find out if the annual flu vaccine is worth considering. According to the Australian Government’s Department of Health, the influenza vaccination is recommended for people aged 6 months and over but if you have any queries or concerns it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider before making the right decision for you. The flu vaccine helps protect yourself as well as those around you, especially those in the community who are vulnerable but can’t be vaccinated due to age or low immunity. In fact, doctors and pharmacists are pushing free jabs for all Australians to help prevent a rise in infections, so have a chat to your GP and you may be able to book a free vaccination.
Stock your medicine cabinet
There’s nothing worse than the discomfort associated with a bad cough or cold, and when you’re feeling unwell the last thing you want to find is an empty packet of cold and flu tablets or an expired bottle of cough syrup. A well-stocked medicine cabinet is essential to be well prepared for cold and flu season. If you’re unsure which items to stock, a reliable pain relief medicine, cough syrup and cold & flu relief is a good place to start. Popular brands such as Panadol and Nurofen and generics like APOHEALTH have specific cold and flu ranges, but make sure to speak to your local pharmacists to find the right relief for your needs.
Take care of your body
It sounds like a no-brainer but taking care of yourself and getting plenty of sleep is the best thing you can do to prepare for cold & flu season. In fact, studies show people who don’t get enough sleep and are exposed to a virus are more likely to fall sick than those who do get sufficient rest. During sleep, proteins called cytokines are released by your immune system, which are required to fight infection. If you find it hard to fall asleep, try taking a warm bath before bed, avoiding your phone screen for 30 minutes before you turn out the light, or trying out essential oils or pillow sprays designed to settle nerves and promote a better sleep.
Wash and dry your hands
One thing the pandemic has taught us is the importance of hygiene and regular hand washing to prevent the spread of germs. In a public place, avoid touching any unnecessary surfaces, but if you do, make sure to wash your hands before touching your face, nose or mouth. Anti-bacterial soap and water are always the best option but if you’re out and about make sure to throw a hand sanitiser in your bag as you head out the door. Brands like Dettol and Chemists’ Own offer convenient travel-size bottles, which are perfect option while on the go.
Stay home when unwell
Staying home and resting is the best way to recuperate when you’re under the weather, but also important to reduce the spread of illness within the community. Avoid trying to “soldier on” through your symptoms and do your best to stay home from work, avoid family and friends, and keep your space from others until your symptoms have improved. Your community will thank you, and so will your body!
Tips by Montana Grenfell, Pharmacist.
