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Remedies for the Flu

Vaccination campaigns are yearly reminders that influenza remains a potential public health danger. The flu is a highly contagious airborne disease that, if neglected, can threaten a life.

  1. Key Recommendations

    • To encourage healing, get plenty of bed rest--preferably in a warm, well-ventilated area--and drink lots of fluids, especially hot fluids.

    Congestion Relief

    • Simple ways to alleviate stuffiness include nasal saline irrigation, warm showers, herbal steam inhalation, over-the-counter expectorants and nasal sprays.

    Cough Relief

    • To ease a nagging cough, suck on cough drops or hard candy, or try an over-the-counter cough syrup. Homemade thyme syrup is also effective.

    Sore Throat Remedies

    • To soothe a scratchy throat, gargle daily with warm salt water. Hot chicken soup, ginger tea and spices, such as garlic and chili peppers, can also help.

    Fever and Muscle Aches

    • Reduce fever and ease aches with over-the-counter pain relievers, Epsom salt baths, and chest and back massages with essential oils.

    Considerations

    • Flu symptoms appear between one to four days after exposure and then last for 7 to 10 days. If symptoms don't improve within that time, or they worsen, see a doctor.

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