The flu is a very
contagious virus that is more prevalent in the winter and early spring. The flu
spreads throughout the respiratory tract and attacks the body. A cold is also a viral infection of the respiratory tract with symptoms
similar to the flu.
Cold and flu symptoms
can include congestion, sore throat,
sneezing, coughing, headache and chest discomfort. However, the symptoms of the
flu can also include high fever for several days, body aches, fatigue
and weakness. Extreme flu cases can lead to pneumonia
and other complications. The “stomach flu” is gastroenteritis, with symptoms
such as abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Flu is spread through
respiratory secretions when you inhale droplets in the air that contain the flu
virus, make direct contact through sharing drinks or utensils, or handle items
contaminated by an infected person. The flu virus on your skin can infect you
when you touch or rub your eyes, nose or mouth. That's why frequent and
thorough hand washing is a key way to prevent or limit the spread of flu.
Flu
symptoms start to develop from one to four days after infection with the virus.
Anyone can get the flu, but the very young and elderly are more likely to have
complications from the flu.
The viruses that
can cause colds and flu can hide in your house. Cleaning toys, door
handles, TV remotes, bath surfaces and telephone receivers can help prevent the
spread of the flu.
There are homeopathic medicines, herbal blends and
additional natural remedies available that may help to reduce the duration and
severity of colds and common flu symptoms such as fever, aches and cough.
·
Oscillococcinum
is a non drowsy homeopathic formula safe for ages 2 and up.
·
Sambucus FluCare
is a multi-symptom flu relief that naturally alleviates fever, cough,
congestion and sore throat.
·
Hyland’s Defend is
a homeopathic syrup helps with the safe and effective relief of runny nose,
nasal congestion, body aches, headache, sore throat and fatigue.
·
Boiron
homeopathic Influenzinum 30C can lessen flu-like symptoms.
·
NatraBio
Cold & Sinus homeopathic nasal spray is non-addictive and helps with congested
nasal passages, sinus pressure, headache, sneezing and runny nose.
·
Boiron Chestal Honey homeopathic cough syrup relieves
dry cough and chest congestion for ages 2 and up.
·
A Nasopure Nasal
Wash system can help with maintaining nasal and respiratory health related to
colds.
·
Organic Sambucus Lozenges with elderberry, vitamin
c and zinc are herbal and nutritional formulas that may help to boost immunity
and soothe the throat.
Mona Claypoole, Director of Marketing and Wellness Support
