The flu season is definitely upon us as the number of cases of persons coming down with the symptoms has increased significantly. Additionally, there has also been a rise in persons seeking medical help for asthmatic crises. Today, Love News spoke to Dr. Carl Jones of Matron Robert’s Health Centre who advises that it is important to get a flu shot and the best time to get that done is during the summer as the flu season normally runs from August through to the end of the year. However, while that is the best case scenario, patients can still go in and get their flu shots. The exception are those who are already showing symptoms of the flu since taking a vaccination while already sick with the flu may increase the severity of the illness.According to Jones preventative methods should be employed, such as covering your mouth when coughing, washing your hands frequently and using hand sanitizer no more than five times before washing your hands. If you work in an air-conditioned environment be considerate of your co-workers and avoid constantly coughing and sneezing which will cause the virus to circulate. Jones also advised that patients refrain from treating the flu with antibiotics as it is caused by a virus and not bacteria. Antibiotics should only be used if there are complications caused by bacteria, which is uncommon.With regards to the rise in asthma,patients need to be aware of their environment and avoid allergens such as dust and mold. Furthermore, parents of asthmatic children should take them to the doctor as soon as they get a cold to avoid further complications. Both the Matron Roberts Health Center and the Cleopatra White Health Center are open weekdays from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on weekends from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
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