Having the flu is never fun. But when you’re sick during holiday celebrations with the family, it can be particularly hard to take.
Do your best to avoid others to avoid spreading the infection.
Call your doctor within two days of getting the flu to see if you can be prescribed an antiviral drug. If used quickly, these drugs can make your flu symptoms less severe and speed your recovery by a day or two. The drugs may also prevent serious complications.
Who needs antiviral drugs the most?
Even if you’ve missed the window for antiviral drugs, call your doctor if your flu symptoms get worse instead of better, or if you have:
Ease your flu symptoms by getting plenty of rest, drinking plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, and gargling with warm saltwater to relieve sore throat pain. Take over-the-counter medications to relieve fever, aches, pains, congestion, and coughing to help you feel better too.
Don’t forget to do everything you can to keep your germs to yourself. Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (without the use of fever reducing medicine). If you absolutely must go out, wear a facemask, or be sure to cover coughs and sneezes. Be especially careful about washing your hands often—and for at least 20 seconds—and quickly dispose of used tissues in the trash to minimize the likelihood of spreading the virus.
One thing you should spread? Get the word out to any procrastinating friends about why they should get a flu shot from the Rite Aid pharmacist.
Sources
Rite Aid – “Wellness”
“Antiviral Treatment: FAQs.” Flu.gov, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. answers.flu.gov/categories/1446.
“Preventing the Flu.” American Academy of Family Physicians. familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/healthy/vaccines/477.html#ArticleParsysMiddleColumn0001.
“Taking Care of Yourself: What to Do if You Get Sick with Flu.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. www.cdc.gov/flu/takingcare.htm.
“What is the most effective way to prevent the spread of flu?” Flu.gov, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. answers.flu.gov/questions/3742.