Flu Virus

This year, whatever code of football you follow, the season is well and truly under way. The Olympic Games are to blame so we're told. Domestic sporting activities have to start and finish early.

Indications are that the flu season might also start early this year; but of course with no guarantee that it will be all over and done with by September.

Most healthy people can cope with a bout of flu; but for some, it can be life threatening. People with chronic heart, kidney or lung disease, diabetes or other long-term illnesses are particularly vulnerable. The stress caused by influenza can worsen these conditions and even cause premature death.

The influenza virus is unpredictable and changes its identity from year to year. This winter it seems likely the most severe form of the flu will be caused by a strain of the virus very similar to one first identified in Sydney a couple of flu seasons ago. The formulation of the Y2K flu vaccine takes account of this.

Prevention is our major weapon against influenza. You can help protect yourself by making sure your lifestyle is healthy with regular exercise you enjoy, and a daily diet that includes the widest possible variety of foods. And, of course, annual vaccination against the flu is recommended for all people in high-risk categories. For people over the age of 65, the Commonwealth Government will supply influenza vaccine free of charge direct from your local doctor.

For everyone, the flu vaccine also remains a pharmaceutical benefit. Check with your Self Care pharmacist if you would like more information. You might also benefit from the new vaccine against pneumonia.

Many of us will be able to avoid the flu this winter, but it's almost certain that we will all suffer the symptoms of the common cold. The first sign is often a sore throat. Within a day or so you will be sniffling and sneezing and maybe have a mild to moderate dry cough. Sinus congestion and earache may also occur and most likely you will feel tired and washed out.

There are no quick fixes but simple self help measures will make life more bearable. For adults, aspirin, paracetamol and ibuprofen products will relieve the aches, pains and fever symptoms. Paracetamol products are suitable for children.

Decongestants, taken orally or in the form of nasal sprays, can help the congestion. Similar products in mixture form, sometimes in combination with expectorants to break-up the mucus, are useful when the cough is troublesome. Steam can provide an effective, low-cost treatment for nasal congestion but needs to be used carefully to avoid scalding.

A survey conducted last year showed that people over 55 will often try the so-called natural remedies - garlic, echinacea and vitamin C. However, once the cold is fully developed you are better off using products that target the major symptoms.