Healthcare practitioners suggest you let the infection simply run its course, advising bed rest as the most effective treatment. It's also recommended that you stay home from work or school, so preventing the spread of the virus.
Over-the-counter cold and flu drugs can offer some relief from fever, aches, stuffy nose and a cough. They don't cure the flu, but can help ease your discomfort.
Prescription medication can shorten the time you feel unwell if you take them within 48 hours of the first symptoms.
Antibiotics are not prescribed for flu as they have no effect on viruses, although they may be prescribed if you develop a complication of flu, such as a bacterial chest infection.
While there is no cure for flu, there are some practical and easy home remedies to ease your discomfort. These include:
- Stay at home and rest
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
- Use cough suppressants and expectorants
- Use steam inhalations
- Use a humidifier
- Suck soothing lozenges
- Inhale saline nasal drops
Get Vaccinated at one of 400 Clicks Pharmacies
A strong immune system is a vital prevention measure against viruses. Getting the flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to boost your immunity and protect your family against infection.
Book an appointment for a flu vaccination at a Clicks Clinic by calling 0860 254 257 or follow the link to the online booking portal: clinicbookings.clicks.co.za
The good news is that most medical aids now cover the flu vaccination and sometimes even reward members. Contact your medical aid scheme for eligibility.
Take note that the following people cannot get vaccinated:
- Babies younger than 6 months
- Anyone allergic to eggs
- Anyone who already has a fever
- Anyone who has shown a past reaction to a vaccine
We have increased our flu vaccination footprint to over 400 Clicks pharmacies. See the list of Clicks pharmacies here.
For more info visit clicks.co.za/fighttheflu or speak to your Clicks pharmacist.
Shop now at Clicks.co.za for cold and flu remedies
To help you ward off colds and the flu, or recover from them, Clicks pharmacists have selected the most trustworthy and affordable products for you to purchase online. These include a wide range of vitamins and supplements and cough, cold and flu remedies.