Stay Healthy This Cold and Flu Season: Prevention and Treatment Tips

With the right mix of prevention, symptom relief, and care, you can make cold and flu season much easier to handle.

Every fall and winter, colds and flu move through homes, schools and workplaces in the Antelope Valley. You cannot avoid every germ, but a few good habits and the right plan can make the season much easier on your family.

Prevention starts early

The flu shot is one of the best tools we have. It is recommended for most people six months and older, and it is best to get it in early fall, before flu spreads widely. CarePoint offers flu shots and other vaccines. Ask us which ones make sense for you.

Everyday habits matter just as much:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow.
• Clean phones, doorknobs and counters regularly.
• Stay home when you are sick so you do not pass it on.
• Get enough sleep and drink plenty of fluids.

Cold or flu?

A cold usually comes on slowly with a runny nose, sneezing and a sore throat. The flu tends to hit suddenly, with fever, body aches, chills and deep tiredness. If you think you have the flu, call your doctor early. Some prescription treatments work best when started soon after symptoms begin.

Choosing symptom relief wisely

The cold and flu aisle can be overwhelming. Many combination products contain the same ingredients, which makes it easy to take too much by accident. Before you buy, ask a pharmacist. We can help you pick a product that matches your symptoms and works safely with your other medicines and health conditions, like high blood pressure or diabetes.

One quick question at the counter can keep you from doubling up on the same ingredient.

For children, always check with us or your pediatrician before giving any cold medicine. Some products are not meant for young kids.

When to get help

Seek care right away for trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, a fever that will not come down, or symptoms that improve and then return worse. Older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic conditions should call their doctor sooner rather than later.

We also offer free prescription delivery anywhere in California, so you can rest at home while we bring what you need.

It also helps to prepare before anyone gets sick. Check your home for a working thermometer, tissues, and a symptom relief product you trust. Make sure your regular prescriptions are filled so you are not making an extra trip when you feel unwell. If you are not sure what to keep on hand, stop by and our team will walk the aisle with you.

Have questions about anything in this article? Call us at 661.480.2373 and talk with a CarePoint pharmacist. We are happy to help, and there is never a charge for a conversation.

This article is general education, not medical advice.