Flu Season: Prevention and Treatment Options

As flu season approaches, it's important to understand how to protect yourself and your family from influenza. Thornhill DrugMart is here to help you navigate flu season with prevention strategies and treatment options. ## Understanding Influenza Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and can sometimes lead to hospitalization or death. ## Flu Prevention Strategies ### Get Vaccinated The flu vaccine is your best defense against influenza. We recommend annual vaccination for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. **Benefits of Flu Vaccination:** - Reduces your risk of getting the flu by 40-60% when the vaccine is well-matched to circulating viruses - Reduces the severity of illness if you do get sick - Helps protect others in your community through herd immunity ### Practice Good Hygiene - Wash your hands frequently with soap and water - Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap isn't available - Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth - Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow ### Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle - Get adequate sleep (7-9 hours for adults) - Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables - Exercise regularly to boost your immune system - Manage stress levels ## Flu Treatment Options ### Antiviral Medications If you do get the flu, antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms when taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. ### Symptom Management - Rest and stay hydrated - Use over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers as directed - Consider throat lozenges for sore throat - Use a humidifier to ease congestion ## When to Seek Medical Attention Contact your healthcare provider if you experience: - Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath - Persistent or worsening fever - Severe headache or neck stiffness - Persistent vomiting - Signs of dehydration ## Flu Vaccination at Thornhill DrugMart We make flu vaccination convenient and accessible: - **Walk-in Service**: No appointment necessary - **Extended Hours**: Available during convenient times - **Insurance Coverage**: Most insurance plans cover flu shots - **Expert Care**: Administered by trained pharmacists ## Protecting High-Risk Individuals Some people are at higher risk for serious flu complications: - Adults 65 years and older - Pregnant women - Children under 5 years old - People with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease If you're in a high-risk group, vaccination and early treatment are especially important. ## Community Responsibility Getting vaccinated doesn't just protect you—it helps protect your entire community, especially those who can't be vaccinated due to medical conditions. Visit Thornhill DrugMart today to get your flu shot and learn more about staying healthy during flu season. Our knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and help you make informed decisions about your health.