This year’s winter has broken a few unusual records with some of the warmest days and coldest nights on record since the 1940s. Meteorologists are expecting a mixed bag this August as Sydney braces for some of its warmest days and coldest nights with Canberra, Melbourne and Darwin following suit. Yet, rain or no rain, nights are colder than ever and seasonal bugs aren’t taking the year off. With this in mind, let’s cover a few important notes on preventing pesky germs from casting a dark cloud over your winter.
Make sure you get your flu jab at your local pharmacist
Developments over recent years have made it possible for Australians to get their annual influenza shots from local chemists without a doctor’s prescription. The move was implemented following a successful series of trials in Queensland, with over 11 000 people receiving their vaccination within five months. While the plan to allow pharmacists to apply flu vaccinations was opposed by some due to regulatory concerns, you can now expect to find a local near you to vaccinate you and your family.
Think twice before giving your child OTC cough meds
Parents are encouraged to consult their local pharmacy to learn more about non-pharmacological ways to boost their children’s immune systems and fight off unwanted bugs. Controlled studies have shown that cough and flu products sold over the counter doesn’t have the same efficacy in children 12 and under than what they do in adults.Much of its ability to treat inflamed chests and coughs is presupposed based on results found in adults. Moreover, cough medicines, if taken in irregular doses may prove dangerous in situations where inadequate supervision is present.
Here are a few “organic” ways you can alleviate the effects of a cold or flu:
Natural or herbalised saline spray is a great alternative to cough medicine. Saline spray’s effectiveness can last up to three hours per dosage and relieve adults and kids from runny noses and post nasal coughs.
Positional drainage is a way of ridding your child of nasal secretion by letting him/her lie on their tummy with their heads slightly positioned downwards. Applying a warm water bottle to their backs or slightly patting them can help to loosen even the toughest phlegm.
Non-medicated lozenges can really help to relieve the nasty symptoms relating to a sore throat. The key is to encourage the production of saliva to loosen phlegm in the throat also to drink lots of liquids to stay hydrated. Note to smokers; consider, at least, cutting down on the amount of cigarettes you smoke or perhaps using that sore throat as a reason to stop.
Avoid gastroenteritis flare ups this winter
Another of winter’s unwelcome companions is the aptly named winter bug, or gastroenteritis. People contract gastroenteritis this time of year since the norovirus thrives in cool and wet conditions. The norovirus moves fast and symptoms typically manifest within 24 hours, which include, stomach cramps, nausea, diarrhea and severe dehydration in serious cases.
Prevention is undoubtedly the best defense against gastroenteritis. Clean toilets, sinks and cooking areas will keep the family safe when indoors and remember to practice hygienic habits when using public facilities. The virus can affect everyone, but special attention should be given to babies and elderly persons who may be at risk of severe dehydration.
Check your home for other causes of illness
Your home can sometimes harbour the very problems you’re trying to avoid during winter. Mould, for example, can act as a silent cause for severe asthma attacks, sinus problems, migraines and even lung infections serious cases. People often experience the symptoms of mould when they’re in direct contact with the area affected by it. If your sinus or asthma intensifies when you’re in a certain part of your home or office, it may be a sign of mould infestation.
Take care not to come into direct contact with mould by trying to wipe it away. Instead use the recommended cleaning materials that effectively kill mould and its spores to prevent its spread and further effects on people.
Make sure you stay on the front foot against colds, flus and pesky germs this winter
Staying healthy in the cold months can be equally fun and rewarding for those who can resist the temptation to sleep in and snuggle up. While staying indoors is a good way to keep warm, neglecting daily exercise can come at a cost. Making sure you get a reasonable amount of exercise, the right balance of vitamins and keeping your diet sensible is a good starting point to keeping healthy this winter.
Also, make sure you pop in at your local community pharmacist for some advice on how to boost you and your family’s immune system during the cold months and keeping everyone in tip top shape.