How to boost your immune system in preparation for flu season
As winter draws closer, the dreaded cold and flu viruses seem unavoidable. From the constant snivelling to the endless groaning and coughing, this is the time of year where you stare on in horror as everyone around you is struck down with flu. Thankfully, we have some tips as to how you can slowly but surely build up your immune system in preparation for the greatly feared flu season.
Building your immune system
As you probably know, the immune system is the body's natural defence system that fights infections. The immune system is an intricate network of cells, tissue and organs that work together to defend your body from any irksome invaders such as bacteria, viruses and parasites.
Sadly, germs are everywhere, so even if you hole yourself away in a sterilised room and avoid human interaction at all costs, germs will always find you. We'd prefer not to make this sound like some terrifying horror movie, and thankfully such extreme measures to avoid germs aren't necessary. For the most part, our immune systems fight off any minor viruses and germs all by themselves, but it's always good to give it a boost where possible. Just by taking a simple multivitamin every morning, you'll give your immune system a much appreciated helping hand. It's also a great idea to keep some antibacterial gel in your bag or office drawer just to kill off any bacteria and germs that are lurking around whilst you go about your day-to-day business.
Preventing the flu
Aside from boosting your immune system, there are plenty of things you can do to minimise the chances of developing flu, including:
- Washing your hands regularly
- Eating a balanced diet
- Getting the flu vaccination
If the worst happens and you do get the flu, then you can usually treat this at home. The best thing you can do is get plenty of rest, keep yourself warm and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. You can also take paracetamol or over-the-counter cold and flu tablets to alleviate any aches or feverish symptoms, but unfortunately as the flu is a virus, antibiotics are unable to treat it.
The flu is a highly contagious virus so it's essential that you stay home from work or school until you're feeling better. If your symptoms haven't improved within a week then you should see your GP. It's worth noting that you are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill if you're:
- over 65
- pregnant
- have a lung, kidney, liver or neurological disease
- diabetic
Whether you're looking for some vitamins to boost your immune system in anticipation of the the flu, or whether you're searching for cold and flu medication, we have everything you need at Online Pharmacy UK.