Effective drugs for the prevention of colds. Cold Prevention Remedies Flu Prevention for Children and Adults

In the cold season, almost everyone gets sick with the flu or a cold. But, despite the fact that these diseases bother people from season to season, few people know how to deal with them correctly, and what drugs should be taken in preventive purposes, and what medicines are needed if the disease has already manifested itself. About those drugs that will help you cope with the flu and colds will be discussed in this material.

Definition of diseases

Influenza is an acute respiratory illness caused by a specific strain of the influenza virus. Typical manifestations of this disease are fever, body aches, heat, headache, sometimes runny nose and sore throat. The virus that causes this disease has a fairly high virulence, therefore it easily generates epidemics and even influenza pandemics.

Like symptomatic remedies, immunostimulants do not destroy the cause of the flu or cold, therefore they can only be used as part of general therapy.

The presented drugs can also be used for prophylactic purposes. They are recommended, for example, in cases where a person has a cold or flu in a family or at work, or an epidemic of SARS or flu has been declared in the city.

Vitamin complexes

The greatest effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of influenza is given by drugs with a high content of vitamin C. For this purpose, you can use both ordinary ascorbic acid and more complex vitamin complexes, at your discretion. Vitamins for you need to choose depending on which age group applies to the patient, as well as what is his general condition.

Taking vitamins alone won't get rid of the flu or a cold, but in some cases it can make it easier to treat and help you avoid the complications of those illnesses.

Treatment of symptoms

In the event that you failed to protect yourself from infection, you need to select symptomatic remedies that can relieve the symptoms of colds and flu. Let's look at them in more detail.

Runny nose

Special vasoconstrictors will help you get rid of this symptom. There are currently quite a lot of such drugs on the market, among them: Galazolin, Naphthyzin, Knoxprey, Sanorin, and many others. Such drugs facilitate human breathing and relieve swelling of the mucosa. Doctors recommend giving preference to drops based on natural oils and herbal extracts, since they do not dry out the mucous membrane and are less likely to cause other side effects.

In addition to this group of drugs, drops based on salt water are also used to treat the common cold. They are used for mucosal sanitation.

Vasoconstrictor drugs, as well as nasal rinses, should be used for no more than a week in a row. Otherwise, they can become addictive and cease to provide the desired therapeutic effect.

A sore throat

Lozenges based on herbal extracts, as well as special alcohol-based throat sprays (for example, Strepsils) will help you get rid of this symptom. Also, you can get rid of a sore throat or chlorophyllipt, as well as regular warm drinking and ingestion of warm milk with honey. You need to use these remedies until the symptom is completely eliminated.

Ear congestion

If you have a flu or a cold, you can use special drops to relieve this symptom, for example, Naphthyzin, Tizin or Sanorin. Also, to eliminate such an uncomfortable phenomenon, you can apply warm compresses to the ears, but they must be used with extreme caution.

Keep in mind that ear congestion is not a typical symptom of colds and flu and is often a sign of complications. If you find it in yourself, contact your doctor immediately.

The specifics of the treatment of adults and children

Treatment for both colds and flu in adults and children is different. Let's look at their features in more detail.

adults

If a cold or flu has been noted in adults, they may be prescribed:

bed rest;
symptomatic drugs, including medicinal teas, which will relieve headaches and body aches;
drops in the nose, as well as drugs to eliminate sore throat;
in some cases - vitamin complexes and immunomodulators.

The average period of treatment for flu or colds in this case will take from 7 to 10 days. In the event that the flu is severe enough, the patient can be hospitalized and further treatment is carried out already in a hospital.

Special therapy for both colds and flu is selected for pregnant women, since many antiviral and symptomatic agents are contraindicated for them. This group of patients should first of all consult a doctor for qualified help in order to avoid complications.

children

If this disease occurs in a child, he is prescribed drugs based on paracetamol to reduce the temperature, vasoconstrictor nasal drops, for example, Pinosol, as well as special children's tablets or cough sprays. Bed rest is mandatory for the child, it is worth refusing from classes and visiting kindergarten for this time. For a cold that is accompanied by a slight increase in temperature, treatment can be carried out using folk recipes, including herbal inhalations, foot baths, and compresses.

If a child has a flu or a cold, it is necessary to start its treatment with a visit to the doctor or by calling the therapist at home. You should not try to choose medications for him on your own - this can lead to various complications and side effects from taking this or that medication.

How to quickly cure colds and flu

Currently, there are no drugs that can get rid of colds and flu in a day or two. However, there are methods that can greatly facilitate and speed up recovery. So you can easily and without consequences cope with the flu and colds if you adhere to bed rest, diet during the illness, and also take symptomatic remedies and immunostimulants. Vitamin complexes can also speed up recovery. indicate that this is one of the most effective and fastest methods of combating a cold.

If from the very first days you take sick leave and adhere to bed rest, you will be able to recover many times faster. But if you endure a cold on your feet, the duration of the disease can double. With influenza, such a course of the disease can even lead to complications.

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conclusions

As you can see, there are many tools that can help you get rid of quickly and effectively. When symptoms of these ailments appear, you should only consult a doctor, pick up the necessary drugs with him and take them according to the scheme prescribed for you. And then very soon you will get rid of colds. And do not forget that timely can protect your health from seasonal diseases.

Winter, which comes into legal rights, is associated not only with a fun pastime on sleds, skis, but also with epidemics of influenza and various colds. But today there are simple and reliable methods to avoid unpleasant ailments. In order not to join the ranks of those who sneeze, it is recommended to use medicines that increase immunity and perfectly eliminate viruses for the prevention of flu and colds.

Colds develop, as a rule, against the background of impaired immunological reactivity. decline natural protection the body increases susceptibility to infections and increases the likelihood of recurrence of viral diseases. Medicines recommended for the prevention of flu and colds:

interferon inductors. These include the drugs "Cycloferon", "Arbidol", "Kagocel", "Amiksin", "Neovir". These funds enhance the production of its own interferon in the body, which increases the antiviral response. Such drugs are recommended to be used in advance, a certain preventive course.
Vitamins. The body's need for them during the cold season increases. The most relevant is the use of drugs "Aevit", "Gerimaks", "Antioxy-caps", "Vetoron".
Adaptogens. These are drugs that increase the resistance of the human body to the effects of the environment. Medicines stimulate the defenses, increase efficiency. Preference is given to such means as the extract of Eleutherococcus, Leuzea, Lemongrass, Gerimaks.
Immunomodulators. These drugs restore impaired immunity. It is advisable to use medicines for the prevention of influenza and colds that do not require a preliminary examination and are characterized by excellent tolerance. These can be Immunal, Immunorm, Bioaron S, Tonsilgon N, Bronchomunal, IRS-19, Likopid, Imudon, Ribomunil.
Antiviral drugs. Such funds allow you to protect the body from a variety of viruses even during prevention. One of effective means are "Arbidol", "Anaferon", "Grippferon", "Amiksin", "Viferon", "Kagocel", "Cycloferon", "Amizon".

List of drugs

Wanting to prevent unpleasant ailments, each person is faced with a large selection of means. Doctors have identified the most effective and popular medicines for the prevention of flu and colds. Let's take a closer look at the list of such funds.

The drug "Amizon"

This medicine is used to treat and prevent colds and flu. In addition, it is used to combat certain infectious diseases such as measles, chicken pox, rubella, mononucleosis and others.

The active substance of the drug is amizon. This product is not to be used on children under 6 years of age.

In the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, influenza, adults should use 2 to 4 times a day for 0.25-0.5 g. The course of treatment is 5-7 days.

If the remedy is used for prevention purposes, it is recommended to use 0.25 g for 3-5 days. Then, for 2-3 weeks, use 1 tablet every 2-3 days.

1 package (20 tablets) is usually enough for a course of treatment. The drug "Amizon" is a fairly inexpensive remedy with a large spectrum of action.

The drug "Arbidol"

Need flu and cold prevention? Medicines that allow you to achieve high results are quite diverse. An excellent drug is Arbidol.

The tool is effective for the treatment of influenza A, B, SARS. Very effective for preventive purposes. Allows not only to treat ailments, but also their complications. It is often used in the complex therapy of pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, recurrent herpes.

Allowed for use by children from 2 years.

For the treatment of uncomplicated diseases, adults are recommended to use 0.2 g 4 times a day. The duration of such treatment is 3-5 days. If the drug is used for prevention, it is used per day for 0.2 g. In this case, the duration is from 10 to 14 days.

The medicine "Remantadin"

The drug is in demand for the fight and prevention during the season of the influenza A epidemic. The drug is not intended for children under 7 years of age.

For the treatment of the disease, it is advisable to use the drug according to the following scheme:

1 day - 2 pills three times a day;
2-3 days - 2 pcs. twice a day;
4-5 days - 2 tablets once a day.

Prevention is based on the use of the drug for 10-15 days once a day, 1 tablet.

The drug "Anaferon"

Homeopathic medicines can be used to prevent flu and colds. This is exactly what the Anaferon remedy is. It is recommended to use it in complex therapy for the treatment of influenza, herpes, SARS.

This drug is allowed to be used by babies from 6 months. The medicine is recommended to be used during the first two hours every 30 minutes. Then during the day use three times 1 tablet. Treatment continues until recovery.

Prevention involves taking 1 pill daily for 1-3 months.

Means "Amixin"

It is desirable that for the prevention of influenza and colds, medicines for adults are recommended by a doctor. If you choose drugs yourself, be sure to carefully study the instructions.

A fairly effective remedy is the medicine "Amixin". It is widely demanded for the treatment and prevention of colds, flu, viral hepatitis.

The drug is not used for children who are less than 7 years old.

For treatment, the drug is used at 0.125 g 1 time per day for 2 days. Then the agent in this dosage is applied 1 time within 48 hours. Prevention is based on the use of 0.125 g once a week. It is expedient to continue this reception for 6 weeks.

Treatment and prevention of children

A healthy child is always cheerful. He laughs fervently, touching those around him. But unfortunately, the crumbs sometimes get sick.

It is much easier to prevent an illness by using medicines for children to prevent flu and colds. To avoid the disease, the baby should increase immunity. Quite effective drugs "Grippferon", "Interferon". Such medicines for the prevention of influenza and colds in newborns (up to 6 months) are instilled into the nose. It is recommended to apply them twice a day, one drop.

Starting from 7 months, children can be given the children's drug "Anaferon". The pill is diluted in a spoonful of warm water.

The following are the most effective medicines for preventing flu and colds for children. However, remember that self-medication is not recommended. It is advisable to coordinate the use of this or that remedy with a pediatrician.

Preparations "Viferon": candles and ointment

These medications should be kept refrigerated.

Candles are an antiviral immunomodulatory agent. Such a drug is prescribed if necessary for newborn babies and even premature babies. The tool is effective for a variety of infectious and inflammatory diseases: influenza, acute respiratory infections, complications after bacterial infections.

Candles are administered rectally every 12 hours for five days. It is recommended to start using them at the first sign of illness.

The ointment is allowed to be used for babies older than 1 year. It is carefully applied to the nasal mucosa 3-4 times a day with a cotton swab. This tool is very effective in complex therapy.

Medicine for children "Anaferon"

The question often arises as to what medicines for the prevention of influenza and colds for children under one year old can be used? The drug "Anaferon" for children is allowed to receive crumbs starting from 1 month.

This is an excellent antiviral immunomodulatory drug. It is used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes against many diseases, including acute respiratory infections, influenza.

The medicine is available in tablets. For infants, as described above, the tablet is diluted in boiled water. Older children are recommended to dissolve the pill.

Ointment "Oxolinic"

This is a tried and tested remedy. Such an ointment is allowed to be used even for newborns. For preventive purposes, they begin to use it, as a rule, from the second month of a child's life.

The ointment is applied to a cotton swab, which is used to lubricate the nasal mucosa. The remedy is exclusively preventive. It does not have the desired therapeutic effect.

The drug "Aflubin"

This is an excellent homeopathic remedy that effectively eliminates the symptoms of colds and flu. Its use is allowed at any age. It is only important to comply with the required dosages.

The taste of the drug is not very pleasant. Therefore, you can dilute the required number of drops in tea or in water.

This remedy is distinguished by immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, antipyretic properties. It is recommended to use the medicine at the first sign of illness.

The drug "Interferon"

The tool is available in ampoules. Like some of the above medicines for the prevention of flu and colds in children, this remedy can be used from birth.

The solution must be prepared before use. Boiled chilled water (about 2 ml) is introduced into an open ampoule up to a special mark. The resulting drug is buried in the nose of the child.

Means "Grippferon"

The basis of the drug is the above-described "Interferon". The tool is already completely ready for use. It is not required to breed it. The medicine is stored strictly in the refrigerator. It is also approved for use from birth.

In the vial, the concentration of the substance "Interferon" is slightly higher than in the self-prepared solution described above. Therefore, crumbs up to a year are instilled no more than 5 times a day.

The drug "Arbidol"

For the prevention of influenza and colds, medicines for children under 3 years old are used not only those described above. The drug "Arbidol" is effective. However, it should be remembered that the remedy is allowed to be used only from the age of 2.

The drug perfectly strengthens the immune system. It helps to increase the resistance of the child's body to many viral ailments. The medicine has proven itself as a prophylactic.

How to protect yourself from the illness of pregnant women?

The immunity of a woman preparing to become a mother is weakened. Therefore, she is more likely to catch a cold or get the flu. Sometimes doctors recommend getting vaccinated before an epidemic as a preventive measure. But on early dates she is unwanted.

All the forces of a pregnant woman should be directed to strengthening the body, increasing immunity. It is recommended to consume a lot of vegetables and fruits, fresh juices. Doctors advise eating a clove of garlic or a little green onion.

For preventive purposes, it is useful to use vitamin herbal teas, fruit drinks, compotes. It is recommended to opt for rose hips, cranberries, viburnum, currants. Good tea with lemon. The use of citrus fruits is effective.

What medicines are allowed to use to prevent flu and colds? For pregnant women, most of the funds are prohibited. During an epidemic, before leaving the house, it is recommended to lubricate the mucous "Oxolinic" ointment. You can drip your nose with the drug "Interferon". Before going to bed, it is recommended to rinse your mouth with tincture of Calendula or Eucalyptus.

In addition, it is important for all family members to take appropriate drugs for preventive purposes during the epidemic.

Conclusion

During cold and damp weather, any person becomes extremely vulnerable to viruses that provoke colds. In addition, the flu can be not only an unpleasant disease that knocks out of the usual rhythm of life, but also a rather dangerous phenomenon. Sometimes it leaves behind various complications. Therefore, during an epidemic, you should protect your body from ailments as much as possible. Accept quality, effective drugs. In this case, excellent protection against viruses is provided to you.

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Inexpensive medicines to prevent flu and colds

Home » Colds » Inexpensive medicines to prevent flu and colds

List of inexpensive flu and cold medicines

Almost everyone suffers from a cold at least once a year. No matter how strong the human body is, it cannot be completely insured against viruses and infections, especially if the off-season or winter has come. Manufacturers for disease control offer inexpensive cold and flu medicines. You need to know which ones are not only cheap, but also effective.

Antivirals are inexpensive but effective

All cold and flu remedies fall into three broad categories:

Antiviral. These drugs fight the virus, make the cells of the body more resistant to its effects.
Immunomodulators. Preparations for correcting the protective reactions of the body to a natural level.
For symptomatic treatment. The drugs in this group do not suppress the infection, but simply remove the symptoms of a cold or flu.

Antiviral tablets

The most famous drugs in this category:

Tamiflu, Oseltamivir. Adults and teenagers drink 1 tablet twice a day for five days. The medicine is not recommended for those who have diseased kidneys.
"Amixin". Adults drink two tablets of 125 mg on the first day of illness, and then - one at a time every other day. The dosage of the children's drug is halved. The drug should not be taken by pregnant women.
Ribavirin. A new generation drug, very effective. Adults take 0.2 g four times a day. Course - 5 days.

Immunomodulators

Inexpensive good medicines for colds and flu in this category:

"Cycloferon". A drug for adults and children who are already four years old. The course is 20 days, take a tablet every other day.
"Kagocel". This medicine can be combined with antibiotics. Adults take two tablets three times the first two days, and then one at a time. "Kagocel" should not be taken by pregnant women for the first three months.
"Anaferon". Homeopathic medicine. Adults drink one tablet 3-6 times a day.

For symptomatic treatment

List of drugs that can remove the symptoms of the disease:

Coldact Flu Plus. Capsules with paracetamol and excipients. You need to drink them one by one every 12 hours. During treatment, it is necessary to categorically refuse alcoholic beverages.
"Coldrex". Helps with colds with wet cough. It is necessary to take one tablet 3-4 times a day. This drug should not be taken if you have diabetes, liver or kidney failure.
"Rinza". Tablets are taken one at a time 4 times a day. They should not be drunk by pregnant women, children under 15 years old, people with heart disease, blood vessels. Course - 5 days.
"Fervex". The drug is produced in the form of sachets with powder, which must be dissolved in warm water. Do not use Fervex for more than three days. Do not drink more than 4 packets per day.

Cold remedies

In addition to pills, there are many other drugs that effectively fight the disease. If you do not want to take antiviral drugs for colds and flu, drink complex symptomatic remedies, then you can try a different treatment tactic. The decision must be made based on the severity of the disease. There are many inexpensive cold and flu medicines that will help you get better.

For sore throat

To relieve inflammation and irritation, the following medicines will help you:

"Grammidin". Fast acting lozenges with anesthetic. You need to take them two pieces 4 times a day, observing a weekly course.
Strepsils. They relieve pain and have an antiseptic effect. Tablets should be sucked one by one every three hours. It is allowed to be treated with the drug for children older than five years. Completely remove the pain in the throat in three to four days.
Faringosept. A powerful medicine that is forbidden to be taken by children under six years of age. It is recommended to dissolve the tablets after meals and then not to drink liquids for some time. Per day - no more than five pieces. The course of treatment is three days.

Nasal drops

A runny nose will help you remove such drugs:

Sanorin. They have a vasoconstrictive effect. Do not treat nasal congestion, but temporarily eliminate it. These drops should not be used for more than five days in a row. As part of a reduced concentration of vasoconstrictor substances and eucalyptus oil.
"Pinosol". Medicinal drops with a therapeutic effect. They slowly fight the causes of a runny nose, but do not eliminate congestion.
Aqua Maris. Means for moisturizing the nasal mucosa. Does not dry out blood vessels, speeds up the healing process. Moisturizing drops are recommended to be used for any type of runny nose.
"Vibrocil". Antiviral drug. Drops remove not only the common cold, but also its cause. They have a vasoconstrictive, antihistamine effect, kill bacteria, relieve swelling.

Antipyretic

The following medicines will quickly reduce the temperature:

"Paracetamol". A time-tested and inexpensive remedy that removes fever, relieves pain and inflammation. side effects he has practically none. Paracetamol is the main active component of many other drugs: Panadol, Fervexa, Flukold, Coldrex.
"Ibuprofen". This medicine is rather anti-inflammatory, but it also lowers the temperature well. It should not be taken by those who have an ulcer, kidney or liver disease. It is part of Nurofen, Ibuklin.
"Aspirin" ( acetylsalicylic acid). Antipyretic and analgesic. Should not be taken by pregnant women, children under 12, those with reduced blood clotting. It is the main component of a huge number of other antipyretic drugs.

For herpes

This unpleasant symptom of a cold will help to overcome such ointments:

"Acyclovir". The cheapest remedy. Fights the virus, does not allow it to multiply. If you are pregnant or nursing a child, then do not use the drug. If you often have herpes, then it is better to alternate Acyclovir with another antiseptic ointment or cream so as not to be addictive.
Zovirax. The composition of the cream includes propylene glycol, thanks to which the active substance penetrates into the cells faster and more efficiently. Well absorbed into the skin. "Zovirax" must be used clearly according to the instructions.
"Fenistil Pencivir". A very powerful medicine that eliminates herpes instantly. Prevents wounds from becoming scars. The drug should not be used by pregnant women, nursing mothers, children under 12.

Against cough

Inexpensive analogues of drugs

If you can't afford even the cheapest antiviral drugs, use Paracetamol, Aspirin, or Ibuprofen. For symptomatic treatment, use local remedies: Naphthyzin or Farmazolin nasal drops, Septifril tablets for treating sore throat, Cough medicine. Gargling with Chlorophyllipt will also be effective.

Medicines to prevent flu and colds

To protect yourself from the disease, and not to cope with its manifestations, it is best to use drugs with an immunomodulatory effect. The rules of preventive administration are described in the instructions for each of them. You can try capsules "Broncho-munal", which is allowed to be combined with almost all drugs. Such drugs as Ribomunil, Immunal, Rimantadine, Arbidol, Amizon have a good preventive effect.

Video: homemade "Coldrex" for a cold

Reviews

Olya, 27 years old: At the first symptoms of the flu, I always take some symptomatic medicine, for example, Rinza or Coldrex. This does not allow the infection to "play out". I have never taken immunomodulators because of the high price. And I try to treat the child with folk remedies, only I bring down his temperature with Paracetamol. I trust more domestic drugs.

Lena, 35 years old: Now the pharmacy offers so many names of medicines for colds that it's hard not to get confused. I try to use antipyretic drugs like Aspirin or Paracetamol. If a runny nose begins, then I use Pinosol. It helps well, although it does not pierce the nose. If a sore throat begins, I use Chlorophyllipt.

Tanya, 24 years old: I always get colds with fever and cough. I drink Fervex in powders, and I also buy ACC. Thanks to this treatment, the disease goes away in three or four days. Last winter I drank Arbidol for prevention, but I still got sick, so I don’t recognize medicines for correcting immunity. I am treated when the cold has already begun.

Influenza Prevention Activities

Every person periodically suffers from infectious diseases that affect everyone, regardless of age or gender - influenza and acute respiratory infections. The patient is in a helpless state for several weeks, feels weak, suffers from fever, headache and intoxication. The death rate of a viral disease is relatively high: 1 death is recorded per 2,000 people. Influenza prevention, according to doctors, serves effective way avoid infection, because the disease is easier to prevent than to cure.

Prevention of influenza folk remedies for colds

Most people believe that protection from infection is possible with just a gauze mask. However, non-specific disease prevention is primarily based on increasing immunity. Folk remedies help to increase the overall resistance of the body to various pathogens. Similarly, homeopathy does not stimulate the production of specific immunity in humans. It is subject exclusively to the vaccine.

Treatment of influenza with folk remedies, although it gives an effect, is very low. To achieve a significant result, it is necessary to systematically carry out the prevention of the disease. If use folk recipes, preventive measures should be carried out constantly (as a way of life). A useful shot of the vaccine is given once a year. Benefits folk remedies how to prevent viruses are:

their sparing action for the body;
the minimum number of side effects;
no contraindications (allowed during pregnancy, allowed for preschool children, nursing mothers);
universal action (prevent not only the flu, but also other diseases);
they are inexpensive compared to pharmacy drugs.

Garlic

Garlic is a proven method of flu prevention. To avoid infection with seasonal viruses and survive the epidemic, adults and children are advised to eat a couple of garlic cloves daily. If the child does not want to eat a spicy product, it is worth trying another method of prevention - inhalation. To do this, pass through a press or grate 2-3 cloves of garlic and a clove of onion. While the gruel is fresh, the baby should breathe in pairs, alternating breaths through the nose and mouth. Since the virus concentrates in the respiratory tract, such prophylaxis is very effective.

vitamins

Mitigation of flu symptoms is considered the correct method of therapy. According to naturopaths, it is not advisable to take antibiotics in this case, since they do not have an effect on the virus. The ideal solution would be traditional medicine. To saturate the body with vitamins that play the role of immunomodulators, they eat honey, drink fruit drinks, compotes from berries (cranberries, raspberries, lingonberries), herbal decoctions with lemon. For the prevention of viral diseases, it is necessary to consume about 500 mg of ascorbic acid per day.

Inhalations

Fast way defeat a runny nose - conducting inhalation. To prevent influenza, 500 ml of water is collected in a small saucepan, brought to a boil, then removed from heat and added to the liquid. essential oil eucalyptus or mint (5-7 drops). Often inhalations are carried out using decoctions of herbs. Sage, oregano, lavender are brewed in boiling water for 10 minutes. After that, you should breathe steam over the pan for 10-15 minutes, covering your head with a towel. For the prevention of viral diseases, the procedure is done 1 time per day.

Prevention of ARVI diseases with antiviral drugs

Means for the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections have a bacterial-stimulating and immunomodulatory effect. Medicines that provide protection against influenza often act on the central nervous system (central nervous system). It is worth studying in detail the instructions and contraindications before starting any drug, including homeopathic remedies. Modern pharmaceuticals do not have a panacea for influenza therapy, since the strains and forms of the virus are constantly changing.

flu pills

Amantadine, rimantadine. They are prescribed for patients with type A influenza (pandemic species, which includes bird, swine, etc.). Taking the pills within the first 2 days after infection may shorten the duration of the illness and dull the first flu symptoms. For group B virus, these drugs will be ineffective. For prevention, no more than 5 mg per 1 kg of adult body weight is prescribed. In childhood (up to 7 years), taking these drugs is prohibited.
Arbidol. The drug suppresses influenza pathogens types A and B, increases the body's resistance to viruses. Even when in contact with an infectious person, the remedy protects against the development of influenza. For prevention, take 1 capsule per day for two weeks. Flu antiviral drugs such as Arbidol are contraindicated in people with serious illness kidneys, cardiovascular system and liver.
Amiksin. Used for the treatment and prevention of many viral diseases, including influenza, hepatitis, herpes and others. Pills inhibit the development of viruses, so they are often prescribed to adults who are already ill or to those who are at risk of becoming infected while working in in public places. Drink Amiksin should be 1 tablet once a week. Refrain from the prevention of acute respiratory infections and colds through this drug costs women during pregnancy or lactation, children under 7 years of age, with hypersensitivity to its components.
Aflubin. The syrup belongs to homeopathic preparations, is able to stimulate the immune system and increase the protective functions of the body. An infant up to a year old is prescribed 1 drop of the drug, mixed in a small amount of milk or water, three times a day. Children under 12 years of age should take 4-5 drops at least three times a day. Adults drink syrup 10 drops up to 8 times a day. The duration of influenza therapy is 5-10 days. For prevention, the drug is taken twice a day for 20 days.
Viferon. Candles are used starting from the first hours of illness. Viferon effectively destroys viruses and stimulates the immune system. Doctors prescribe a drug for the prevention or treatment of acute respiratory infections and influenza, even for small children and the elderly, due to the gentle effect of the drug on the body. Scheme of taking Viferon: 1 suppository per day for 5 days. Often, to consolidate the result, a second course of therapy is carried out.
Theraflu. Such powders and tablets, which contain paracetamol, are considered the most effective for the prevention of colds. Their disadvantage is a high degree of toxicity. Paracetamol-based products can cause stomach pain or colic, in addition, they have harmful action on the liver, kidneys. Doctors recommend not taking such drugs for the prevention of influenza, but using Theraflu, Coldrex and other drugs of this group only in severe cases of the disease with persistently high fever.

Nasal drops

Grippferon. Drops, in order to prevent acute respiratory infections and other viral diseases, are instilled into the nose twice a day. For the treatment of influenza, the agent is used 4-5 times a day. As a rule, Grippferon is not used during an epidemic, but only during contact with sick people. Doctors do not recommend using the remedy for longer than 5-7 days. Grippferon for prevention is prescribed for both adults and children from 1 year.
Ingaron. The drug differs from analogues in that its effectiveness is equally equal at all stages of influenza: from development to recovery. Studies have shown that viruses are not able to get used to the components of the drops. It is forbidden to use Ingaron for women during pregnancy and for children under 7 years of age. The drug is produced in the form of a powder, which should be diluted with water. The daily dosage for the prevention of viral infections is 500,000 IU.
Derinat. The only drug of the antiviral group that does not contain interferon. Due to the special composition, the drops are effective even against fungal infection or bacterial infection of the body. Derinat helps the regeneration of the nasal mucosa after the destructive action of viruses. For prevention, the drug is used 1 time per day. If the symptoms of SARS have already appeared, the nose is instilled twice a day with an interval of about 12 hours.

Ointment for the nose

Oksolin. Ointment in the nose is used to prevent acute viral infections 2-3 times a day, lubricating the inner cavity of the nostrils with it. The course lasts 20-25 days during the most dangerous period of the epidemic. For the treatment of the common cold, Oxolin is used for 3-5 days. Influenza prophylaxis in pregnant women is severely limited. As a result, cheap oxolinic ointment helps a lot. Along with taking vitamin supplements, it is the main means of preventing influenza.
Fleming's ointment. homeopathic remedy used for the treatment of rhinitis and sinusitis. The ointment has an antibacterial effect, activates blood microcirculation and increases the protective function of the immune system. For prevention, the drug is used as follows: the contents of the tube are squeezed out in a small amount onto a cotton swab and applied to the mucous membrane of each nostril. The procedure is repeated in the morning and evening.

flu shot

The vaccine is considered the most reliable way to prevent the flu during an epidemic. It strengthens the immune system, which, after vaccination, is able to suppress any viruses of a cold nature. main function The healing shot is to prevent influenza infection. Complications after an illness are considered especially dangerous, for which the vaccine is the main enemy. Signs of an exacerbation of health after the flu are malfunctions of the cardiovascular system, liver, kidneys, and respiratory organs.

The most common flu vaccines include: Begrivak, Grippol, Agrippal, Influvak, Fluarix. Each person has the right to independently choose a remedy, based on their state of health and financial capabilities. However, before you get vaccinated, you must definitely visit a doctor. It is allowed to vaccinate against influenza from the age of six months, but doctors strongly recommend that some categories of people get an injection. To the group high risk relate:

patients with diabetes;
pregnant women;
suffering from impaired metabolism;
elderly people (from 50 years old);
children from six months to adulthood;
patients on inpatient treatment;
people with diseases of the kidneys, lungs, heart or blood vessels;
schoolchildren, preschoolers and students;
people with immunodeficiency;
infected with staphylococcal infection.

A common occurrence with influenza vaccination is an adverse reaction to the vaccine. To avoid negative effects vaccination, you need to warn the doctor about the existing diseases or those that you have suffered in the last month. The specialist should also be aware of allergic reactions to any drugs and products. Vaccinated people note the manifestation of flu-like symptoms in the first days after the injection. This:

headache;
a slight increase in temperature;
redness of the vaccination site;
slight weakness.

The SARS vaccine is allowed to be administered even to nursing mothers. Breastfeeding does not interfere with the immune response in any way and is not considered a contraindication to the flu shot. In addition, antibodies produced by the mother's body, penetrating through breast milk, serve as additional protection for the child from viruses. It is forbidden to give an injection to nursing with a runny nose or other symptoms of a cold.

The flu is very easily transmitted. The most common methods of infection are airborne and household. When talking, sneezing, coughing, sputum is released from the nasopharynx of the infected, containing pathogenic substances that can spread 2-3 meters around the patient. As a rule, the flu manifests itself immediately in an acute form. The incubation period of the disease lasts from 2 to 5 days, after the symptoms of the virus are diagnosed. To avoid inpatient treatment in the clinic, it is important to carry out seasonal prophylaxis of the disease.

Antiviral drugs for children

Colds in children are common. It indicates a low protective function of immunity, the susceptibility of the baby's body to cold, viruses, and infections. The main difficulty in treating babies is the inability to use effective means. They are contraindicated in small children due to their complex composition. Children's antiviral agent should be free from side effects. After watching the video, you will learn about the TOP drugs for the prevention of viruses, including influenza, in babies.

What is the difference between ARVI and ARI

Colds are more common in children than in adults. With the onset of cold weather, parents are faced with poor health of the child, who has a fever, cough, runny nose. The cause of such symptoms can be SARS, acute respiratory infections or influenza. How are diseases different? Learn about this and disease prevention methods by watching the video.

Influenza vaccination

The first sign of an approaching epidemic is the mass flu vaccination. To prevent the spread of the virus, the state creates an action plan that is implemented in all institutions. These are memos about the disease, thematic health bulletins, posters. Their main topic is flu vaccination. After watching the video, you will find out whether it is worth getting vaccinated to prevent infection with the virus.

Antivirals for flu and colds

Treatment of viral diseases is difficult and requires taking into account the characteristics of the patient. A person's age, individual characteristics of the body, the level of readiness of the immune system to respond, and even the stage of the disease play a role. Antiviral drugs for colds and flu are given to prevent and strengthen immunity. It can be treated with pills, powders, injections or other methods. Patients are not recommended to choose cold medicines - because of the significant differences in the "cold" of a bacterial and viral nature. It is best to consult with your doctor first.

What are antiviral drugs

Medicines Each category differs in the principle of action on bacteria and the human body. Antiviral drugs are proteins that help the immune system destroy viruses when they enter the body again. Tablets are not always effective, so injections are recommended. When treating a cold or flu, it is important to understand the difference between antivirals and antibiotics.

antiviral agents strengthen the immune system, prevent viruses from entering the body;
antibiotics kill bacteria, but negatively affect the immune system.

Many patients have a question whether it is possible to take antibiotics and antivirals at the same time. The answer will be unambiguously negative. Drugs of the first category block the action of drugs from the second group. Taking antiviral drugs will be useless. There are rare exceptions, so what to take with the flu should be agreed with the doctor.

Medicines for the prevention of influenza

Antivirals fall into several categories. They differ in the form of release, packaging, recommended age for use, spectrum of action and contraindications. Medicines for flu and colds are made in the form of tablets, powders or special formulations for injection. For home treatment or disease prevention, the first two categories of drugs are used. Vaccination is organized in medical institutions.

immunomodulators (agents that promote the production of interferons and briefly enhance immune defenses);
antiviral agents (antiretroviral, antiherpes, anti-influenza drugs, extended spectrum of action);
means for vaccinations (the main purpose of the drugs is to stimulate the production of antibodies, vaccination is carried out before infection).

Antiviral drugs for influenza

Please note that transferred funds suitable for adult patients, pregnancy or childhood require special rules for appointment and admission. Popular remedies for viral diseases include:

"Kagocel" - has the ability to immunostimulate the body, is available in the form of tablets, suitable for the treatment and prevention of influenza in adults or children over 3 years old;
"Ingavirin" - an immunostimulant, not recommended for children under 18 years of age, increases the activity of interferon function;
"Cycloferon" - an interferon inducer, an immunostimulant, prevents herpes infection, pregnancy or lactation are among the contraindications;
"Acyclovir" - has an antiherpetic effect, is available in the form of an effervescent powder, during pregnancy or lactation is taken according to the recommendations of a doctor, can cause allergies;
"Remantadin" - can be sold with a changed name "Rimantadine", high-speed antiviral drug, a wide spectrum of action, is contraindicated during pregnancy or lactation.

For children

The recommended age for medicines that can be given to a child is indicated in the instructions. Keep in mind that it is impossible to break the rules and dosage. The following medicines are suitable for treating colds and flu at an early age:

"Rimantadine" - suitable for prevention or treatment early stages diseases, is used for children over 7 years old in accordance with the instructions;
"Grippferon" - suitable for children from birth, used to treat or prevent viral diseases;
"Anaferon" - contraindicated in children under 1 month, a powerful immunostimulant.

During pregnancy

Moms who are happily expecting a baby are highly recommended not to take antiviral drugs without a doctor's prescription. Examples of drugs that can be used during lactation, during pregnancy:

"Viferon" - candles are safe not only during pregnancy, but also during lactation, contain vitamins that help strengthen immunity;
"Ocillococcylum" - used to treat acute respiratory viral infections, middle and severe influenza, a strong variant with minor side effects;
"Grippferon" - strengthens the immune system, an antiviral drug for colds and flu, it is recommended to comply with the conditions specified in the instructions.

Inexpensive antiviral drugs

The selection of drugs in the treatment of any disease must be carried out in accordance with certain recommendations. Remedies for SARS and influenza differ in their specifics. In order not to spoil the health and not risk harming the child, it is better to check with the doctor about the nuances of replacing imported expensive drugs with cheap ones. The list of domestic options - no less effective than foreign ones - is very extensive. Replace modern expensive flu pills with cheap analogues:

"Kagocel" is replaced by "Remantadin" or "Arbidol";
"Grippferon" can be replaced by "Interferon";
"Zovirax" is identical in composition to "Acyclovir";
"Acyclovir Akri" is replaced by the usual "Acyclovir".

Every year, seasonal colds lie in wait for us at the most inopportune moment, as they are quite difficult to avoid and prevent. Therefore, with the advent of cold weather, hospitals are filled with constantly coughing and sneezing patients. Our rhythm of life does not allow us to often use sick leave, so the topic of preventing and treating colds is always relevant.

Prevention measures

In fact, there are many remedies for the prevention of colds, many of them are neglected due to lack of time or mistakenly believe that they are not effective enough.

Eat as many vegetables and fruits as possible. They are rich in all vitamins and microelements necessary for human health. Give up pharmacy "chemistry", which is not absorbed, in favor of healthy products.
Wash your hands often. Most cold and flu viruses are transmitted through direct contact. A sick person, when sneezing, covers his mouth with his palms, and then touches the phone, door handle, kitchen utensils. The causative agent of the disease can “wait” for the next victim for several hours or even weeks. If you don't have water or wet wipes handy, try rubbing your hands together for 1 minute. This helps to destroy some of the causative agents of the common cold.
Do not cover your mouth with your hands when coughing and sneezing to prevent the infection from remaining on your hands. It is better to use a handkerchief or a napkin. If there is nothing suitable at hand, then you can use inside elbow bend.
It is not recommended to touch your face, otherwise flu and cold viruses will enter your body through your eyes, nose or mouth. Most children catch colds by touching their faces, and this is the main route of transmission of colds to their parents.
Drink more fluids: Water flushes your body, flushing out toxic substances. An adult needs to drink 2-2.5 liters of water per day. If the urine is dark yellow, the amount of water should be increased.
Use the sauna more often. Exposure to steam with a temperature above 27 degrees does not give flu and cold viruses a chance to survive.
Get regular exercise. Aerobic exercise speeds up the heartbeat, and it begins to overtake a larger volume of blood. Breathing becomes faster, so the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the blood is accelerated. The body heats up and sweats. Exercise helps increase the number of body cells that kill viruses.
Eat yogurt. Their daily use reduces susceptibility to colds by 25%. The healing bacteria in yogurt stimulates the production of immune system chemicals that fight disease.
Give up cigarettes. Heavy smokers very often catch colds and are hard to tolerate diseases. Even with the inhalation of cigarette smoke, immunity decreases, as it dries out the nasal passages and paralyzes the cilia. These fine hairs, which line the mucous membrane in our nose and lungs, sweep cold and flu viruses out of our nasal passages in a wave-like motion. 1 cigarette can paralyze them for 30-40 minutes.
Limit your alcohol intake. It strongly depresses the immune system and leads to dehydration.
Get more rest and relaxation. If you learn to relax, you can activate your immune system on demand. Imagine pleasant and peaceful pictures for 30 minutes every day for several months. Relaxation can be learned with persistence and patience.

These remedies are good for preventing colds, they will help improve your immunity, and you will be less likely to get colds.

The most popular medicines for preventing colds are:

Infagel. They lubricate the nasal passages 2 times a day.
Grippferon instilled into the nose 1-2 times a day. This medicinal product used to prevent colds during pregnancy. The drug stimulates an increase in immunity and has a pronounced antiviral effect.
Oxolinic ointment lubricate the nose 3 times a day for a month.
Interferon instilled into the nose 2 times a day, 5 drops during the period of incidence.
Ingaron and Alfaron drip in turn 2 drops into each nostril after cleaning them. The procedure is carried out 30 minutes before meals 1 time per day for 10 days. For the prevention of colds during pregnancy, only Alfaron is used. It is also recommended for children and lactating women. In the prevention and treatment of colds in children under one year old, Alfaron is dripped 1 drop up to 5 times a day, for children from 1 to 3 years old - 2 drops 4 times for 5 days. Then a break is made for 2 weeks and the course is repeated.
Kagocel prescribed for adults and children over 6 years of age. For the prevention of colds, the drug is taken in weekly cycles: 2 tablets 2 days 1 time per day, then a break for 5 days. The cycles are repeated for several months.
Tiloron, Lavomax, Amiksin are considered no less reliable. For the prevention of colds, medicines are taken 1 time per week. Adults are prescribed a dose of 125 mg, children - 60 mg for 45 days.
Arbidol Helps prevent catching the flu after contact with a sick person. The medicine for the prevention of colds is taken 1 time per day for 0.1 g.
Ascorbic acid. It can be used as a separate source of vitamin C. Ascorbic acid not only prevents infection, but also fights viruses that have already entered the body.
Aqua Maris. This drug in the form of a nasal spray allows you to moisturize the nasal mucosa, thereby reducing the risk of viruses entering the nasal cavity.
Derinat. This immunomodulator is dripped into the nose 2 times a day for the prevention and treatment of colds in adults and children. Pregnant women should take it only after a doctor's prescription.
Oscillococcinum. This homeopathic remedy is taken 3 times with an interval of 8-10 hours, 4 grains 15 minutes before a normal meal or at least one hour after a meal. It is absolutely harmless and effective, therefore it is recommended for young children and pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy.
Viferon. This nasal ointment is prescribed for the prevention of colds during pregnancy during an epidemic. It has protective and immunomodulatory effects, and also allows you to deal with disorders that are already occurring in the body. Viferon has no contraindications for use in pregnant women at any time, including the first trimester.

Influenza and colds are the most common diseases during the cold winter or the changeable autumn-spring season. Surely every reader of our article encounters them regularly - 1-2, and maybe 3 times a year. In most cases, these diseases end in a complete recovery of the patient in 7-10 days, but sometimes they can cause serious complications and even cause death. Since any disease is easier to prevent than to treat, in our article we will focus on the prevention of influenza and colds. But first, we will talk about what these diseases are and how they manifest themselves - so you can easily recognize the pathology and seek medical help in a timely manner.

Flu and cold - what is it?

Many people who are not related to medicine believe that colds and flu are synonymous, one and the same. They are wrong. What exactly? Let's figure it out.

Influenza is one of the acute respiratory viral infections. That is, the causative agent of the disease is exclusively a virus, which is called the influenza virus. The main route of infection transmission is airborne (when a patient sneezes and coughs, the virus enters the air, and with it into the body of another healthy person). There is also a contact-household way of transmission of the virus - with dirty hands through the mouth and mucous membranes.

So, for the transmission of the virus, you need:

The source of infection is a sick person.
An organism susceptible to infection (that is, one that does not have immunity to this particular disease or has an immunodeficiency in general - both primary (congenital pathology of the immune system) and secondary (developed against the background of other serious diseases - AIDS, diabetes and others).
Contact of a susceptible organism with a virus (occurs when a patient blows his nose, coughs or sneezes - the virus immediately enters the mucous membranes of a previously healthy person and enters the body, or it spreads to furniture and other household items, from where with dirty hands - into the mouth or again on the mucous membranes of the infected).

Influenza affects people of all ages, especially during periods of epidemics and pandemics that occur periodically.

Cold is a "folk" term. In medicine, there is no such concept - not a single doctor will write “Diagnosis: a cold” in the patient's card. This is a condition that occurs as a result of hypothermia of the body - when a person freezes. The point is that in oral cavity Each of us is home to many opportunistic pathogens. When a person’s immunity is normal, these bacteria do not manifest themselves in any way, but if immunity decreases, they become active - they penetrate into the mucous membranes, multiply there, release toxins and metabolic products - a disease develops. One of the factors that significantly reduce both general (of the whole organism) and local (in the oral cavity) immunity is hypothermia.

In addition, some of us suffer from chronic inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity. For example, chronic tonsillitis or pharyngitis. With hypothermia, microbes that “sleep” in the tonsils or cells of the pharyngeal mucosa wake up and an exacerbation of the disease occurs.

So, it would seem that a healthy person froze, local and general immunity of the body decreased, microorganisms in the oral cavity became more active, a disease arose.

From what was written above, it probably became clear to readers that the flu is a viral infection, and the common cold is bacterial in nature. These conditions are not the same and should be treated differently. However, preventive measures are largely similar - they will be discussed below.

Flu and cold symptoms

The manifestations of these diseases are similar. Their intensity depends on the characteristics of the response to the disease of a particular patient, therefore it varies quite widely in each case.

Increase in body temperature. This is a sign of an inflammatory process in the body of absolutely any etiology, and not just with flu and colds. A change in temperature is a defensive reaction, which means that the immune system has entered the fight against infection. The temperature can rise to subfebrile (37-38 ° C) or febrile (up to 39 ° C) values - this depends on the type of pathogen. Influenza, as a rule, proceeds with a febrile temperature, and another infection from the ARVI group - rhinovirus - may be limited to a rise in the mercury column to 37.5 ° C and no more.

You should not try to bring the temperature down below 38.5-39.0 ° C - it will not harm the body, but it is at such values that the immune system works as actively as possible. The exception is people with diseases of the nervous system (epilepsy, tumors, and others), as well as those who do not tolerate fever very well - in these cases, in order to prevent the development of seizures or alleviate the patient's condition, antipyretics are taken earlier.

Signs of intoxication: headache, dizziness, weakness, fatigue, irritability, muscle and joint pain, loss or complete lack of appetite. With a certain infection, the patient may complain of all these symptoms at once, or only some of them. The degree of their severity also depends on the aggressiveness of the pathogen and the immune status of the organism. With influenza, as a rule, the symptoms of intoxication are very pronounced, and with exacerbation of chronic pharyngitis or tonsillitis, they are practically, and sometimes completely absent.
Runny nose and sneezing. In most cases, nasal discharge is accompanied by viral infections. The composition of the nasal mucus in a huge concentration contains substances that act on viruses, depriving them of the ability to multiply and spread further through the respiratory tract. At first viral infection the mucus discharged from the nose is clear, but after a few days it darkens, changing its color to green.

The body tries to expel viruses from the nasal cavity by sneezing (this is also a protective reflex).

If, at the very beginning of the disease, thick yellowish, greenish or green contents are released from the nose, most likely there is an acute or chronic inflammation of the paranasal sinuses - sinusitis (sinusitis, frontal sinusitis, ethmoiditis - these are varieties of the disease), which could occur after hypothermia. In this case, the mucus is secreted by the inflamed mucous membrane of the sinuses and contains a large number of pathogenic microorganisms - bacteria.

A sore throat. Maybe, or maybe not. Its intensity depends on the type of pathogen and the individual characteristics of the organism.
Cough. In inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, their mucous membrane secretes an increased amount of mucus. It is necessary to neutralize the action of pathogens and clear the paths of them. The body tries to eliminate excess of this mucus by coughing. It can be dry (occur due to irritating effects on the mucous membrane) and wet (productive - that is, with sputum). It is worth saying that on initial stage illness cough is often dry, and with its course it becomes more and more productive. Superficial cough occurs with lesions of the upper respiratory tract - pharynx, larynx, and in the case of localization of the pathological process in their lower sections - in the trachea or bronchi - the cough becomes deeper, it is popularly called chest. With an exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis (that is, with a cold), a cough also takes place: inflamed tonsils secrete an increased amount of secretion, which partially drains into the throat and irritates its mucous membrane. To prevent it from entering the lower sections, a cough occurs.

Prevention of flu and colds

In order not to catch these diseases, each person needs to monitor the state of his immunity and help strengthen it, as well as avoid contact with viruses. Let's consider in more detail.

How to strengthen immunity

Hardening, fresh air and sufficient rest will help strengthen the immune system.

Experts have developed the following recommendations:

Rational and balanced nutrition: proteins are the building material for immunity, so they must be ingested in sufficient quantities, namely 60-120 g per day for an adult, depending on his body weight. In addition to protein, you should eat a large number of foods containing polyunsaturated fatty acids, fiber, vitamins and trace elements. Limit the consumption of fast food and easily digestible carbohydrates. It would also be useful to include yogurt in the diet - they contain bacteria that have a beneficial effect on the immune system. But it is worth noting that you do not need to rely on store-bought yogurts - their shelf life often far exceeds the life of these bacteria. It would be more correct to prepare yogurts on your own, using special starter cultures. You can do this with the help of a yogurt maker, and if you don’t have such a device, just in a saucepan that needs to be well insulated.
Rejection bad habits. Ethyl alcohol and nicotine are toxins for our body - they depress the immune system, reducing its ability to protect against infections. In addition, nicotine entering the respiratory tract mechanically damages their mucosa, which facilitates the penetration of infection into it.
Observe the regime of work and rest. Lack of sleep has never been good for anyone. As a result of exposure to increased loads and insufficient rest, all body functions, in particular, metabolism and defenses, are significantly reduced - the risk of infection by various microorganisms increases. To prevent this, you should rest in sufficient volume - allocate 7-8 hours for a healthy night's sleep, and if possible, an hour in the daytime.
Avoid psycho-emotional overload. Negative experiences, as well as overwork, disrupt the normal functioning of the body and the immune system in particular. You should begin to calmly respond to difficulties and not worry about trifles. You also need to learn how to relax. During this process, the content of special substances in the blood increases - interleukins, which, like no other, fight viruses. To relax, you should turn on calm, pleasant music, lie down or sit comfortably, close your eyes and draw in your imagination a certain picture that will lead you to a state of calm and satisfaction. This procedure should be carried out for half an hour daily.
Avoid hypothermia. Under the influence of cold, blood vessels spasm and the body's defenses decrease. You should always dress for the weather, not neglecting a hat, scarf and mittens in the cold season.
Fight hypodynamia, lead an active lifestyle. As a result physical activity blood circulation improves, metabolism accelerates and the body's resistance to infections increases. If your health condition does not allow you to attend, say, aerobics classes, you should take daily walks on foot, and preferably several times a day. fresh air- this will also be quite enough to strengthen immunity.
Temper. The body, adapted to the effects of adverse factors, more actively resists diseases. Hardening should be carried out gradually. For young children, as a hardening procedure, wiping with a damp towel, the temperature of which is gradually reduced, or dousing the arms and legs, is recommended. Adults often use douches cold water And . There are many author's methods that, according to their creators, allow to harden most effectively.

All these recommendations relate to a person's lifestyle. Is it possible to increase immunity with the help of pharmaceutical preparations or prescriptions traditional medicine? Let's say right away - studies that guarantee the effectiveness of these treatments have not been conducted. There are many preparations of plant and synthetic origin, homeopathic, but their effectiveness is doubtful. There is also a separate group of drugs - immunomodulators, but they are allowed to be taken only after a doctor's recommendation. Otherwise, they can do more harm than good.

As for traditional medicine, the use of such recipes is quite acceptable, but as an element of complex prevention, but on their own. In order to strengthen immunity, you can use:

decoctions and infusions of echinacea, lemongrass - use inside;
garlic and onions - you can eat them, or you can chop them and put them in all rooms; phytoncides contained in these products spread in the air and, so to speak, repel microorganisms, and when ingested, they negatively affect viruses;
coniferous plants - juniper, pine, fir and others; in order to disinfect indoor air, one branch of these plants should be burned once a day;
citrus essential oils, tea tree, eucalyptus or others coniferous plants; they can be used in different ways: if you are in a room, put a few drops of oil or a mixture of oils into an aroma lamp; if at work - use an aromatic pendant, or you can take a bath in which these oils are added;
honey-lemon bath: to prepare it, you should grind 7 lemons, pour them hot water and leave for a few hours; draw water into the bath, pour lemon juice into it, and immerse the peel and pulp in water in a gauze bag; Dissolve 100 g of honey in 100 ml of warm water and pour into a bath; take within 15-20 minutes 1 time in 3-4 days.

How to prevent infection

Speaking about the prevention of influenza, it is impossible not to mention vaccination. As a rule, epidemics are expected, and the virus that will cause a wave of morbidity is known to doctors in advance. In a period when the incidence has not yet increased, it is worth getting a flu shot. If the epidemic has begun, it is not advisable to vaccinate, because the formation of immunity takes time, which you no longer have.

Vaccination is only healthy person, outside SARS and other pathologies. It is especially recommended to be vaccinated against influenza for people in whom this disease can cause a number of serious complications (namely: pregnant women and the elderly), as well as those who, by occupation, have a lot of contact with people, children and food products(doctors, teachers, cooks and so on).

It is worth noting that vaccination is not a guarantee that you will not get SARS at all. You can be infected with any other virus, and even the flu virus, but in this case, the disease will proceed easily and with minimal risk of complications.

It is much easier to prevent a disease than to treat it later. Only an integrated approach to the prevention of influenza and colds will help prevent the development of these diseases in you.

TV channel "41", program "News", heading "Rules of life" on the topic "On the prevention of influenza":