The flu is a common respiratory virus that circulates in the fall and winter. The illness can range from mild to severe, and common symptoms include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, fever, sore throat, chills, aches and coughing.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for the flu, but we talked to Tania Horkoff, Pharmacy Manager at Saskatoon Co-op in Warman, Sask., about ways to help alleviate bothersome symptoms.
Over-the-counter options
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen, can help with aches and pains. They can also help control a fever.
Horkoff noted that a fever does not need to be treated in most cases because it's the body’s natural way of fighting off the virus, but any person with a fever close to or above 40 C should see a physician immediately.
Antiviral prescriptions
Prescription antiviral medications can help treat the flu. These medications are not cures for the illness, but they may reduce its severity and duration. Antiviral medications are important for individuals who are elderly, who have lung diseases, diabetes or heart disease, or who have a high risk of complications.
"These medications work best when they are started at the first sign of the illness," explained Horkoff, noting that you should ask your pharmacist for more information.
Rest and relaxation
Adequate hydration, rest and taking time off are also important to ensure a proper recovery from the flu.
"Taking time away from daily activities, such as work or school, not only provides time for the body to recover, but also prevents the spread of the illness to others," said Horkoff.
Supplements found at any pharmacy help restore balance to your electrolyte levels, especially in individuals experiencing diarrhea or vomiting.
Effective flu prevention
The flu shot is recommended for almost everyone as an effective prevention strategy.
- READ MORE: Flu protection for everyone
The shot is the best guess of influenza strains circulating each year. Unfortunately, sometimes this means the flu shot is not a good match, and the viruses it protects against aren’t the predominant viruses making people sick.
In order to protect yourself and others from the spread of the flu virus, frequent hand washing is important, even if you've had your annual flu shot.
"Other than getting vaccinated, handwashing is the most effective way to prevent getting sick," said Horkoff.
If you do happen to come down with the flu, stop by your Co-op pharmacy for help with symptom relief.