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Is it the Flu or the Cold? (continued)
Contributed by: Kunj Patel, Pharm.D.
Community Pharmacy Resident
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Get a flu shot:
The best way to prevent the flu is VACCINATION!! It is best to inquire with your local pharmacy as to when they will offer flu shots. Flu shots are needed every year because of the changing characteristics of circulating viruses. Do not be hesitant to receive a flu shot because you have heard that the vaccine will give you the flu. This is FALSE! The vaccine that is given through a shot is inactive meaning that the flu viruses have been killed. If you do get the flu soon after getting vaccinated, it may be because you have already been exposed to the flu virus. The virus only needs 2-5 days to cause symptoms and coincidental infections with influenza or other viruses near the time of vaccination may be misinterpreted to be caused by the vaccine.
How can I treat the Cold?
DO NOT USE ANTIBIOTICS TO TREAT A COLD! This is very important to remember be
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cause of antibiotic resistance. When an antibiotic is used when it shouldn't be, resistance may develop and that antibiotic will no longer have an effect against that bacteria. As more and more people use antibiotics when they shouldn't be, bacteria change so they acquire resistance to that drug and it becomes harder and harder to treat individuals.
All colds are self limiting, meaning, that they will go away on their own in about 1 week. Some ways to battle your cold include drinking lots of fluids and staying well rested. There are also over the counter medications that can help you with your symptoms. Ask your pharmacist to find one that is right for you.
How can I treat the Flu?
Antiviral agents such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) or zanamavir (Relenza®) within 24-48 hours can reduce illness severity and shorten duration of illness. Limited data
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suggest that influenza antiviral medications may also prevent serious influenza-related complications (e.g., pneumonia or exacerbation of chronic diseases). Oseltamivir and zanamavir are in a class of medications called neuraminidase inhibitors. It works by stopping the spread of the flu virus in the body.
For more information, talk to your pharmacist or physician. For additional information, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/coldflu.htm.
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Balls Hen House Pharmacies
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8120 Parallel Parkway
Kansas City, KS 66109
(913) 334-1660
6238 N. Chatham Road
Kansas City, MO 64151
(816) 746-1475
1015 N.E. Rice Road
Lee's Summit, MO 64086
(816) 525-1479
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13600 S. Blackbob
Olathe, KS 66062
(913) 782-2039
2724 W 53rd St
Fairway, KS 66205
913-236-4983
6900 W. 135th Street
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 814 WELL (9355)
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Sprint Campus
6450 Sprint Parkway
Overland Park, KS 66251
(913) 315-8646
Merriam Town Center
5800 Antioch Rd.
Merriam, KS 66202
(913) 831-4140
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