Beat flu this winter

Down with the flu? Many people make the mistake to think that antibiotics could help. But as flu is caused by the influenza virus, these medications won't make a difference. Luckily, there are steps you can take to speed up your recovery.

Take action:
Stay in bed for a few days to rest; ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter drugs to relieve symptoms; increase your intake of vitamins A and C; try aromatherapy oils like lavender, grapefruit or rosemary oil in your bath or as a massage oil; try zinc lozenges to soothe a sore throat and zinc nasal spray for a runny nose; chicken soup may soothe a sore throat, clear clogged passageways, and hydrate a thirsty body; consult your doctor if the flu is severe, if you show any signs of a secondary infection, or your fever persists longer than three to five days.