As cold and flu season continues to impact Utah, local pharmacists and doctors are urging residents to take extra precautions to protect themselves and their families. With flu cases on the rise and illnesses spreading rapidly, experts say now is the time to focus on prevention and early treatment.
At Jolley’s Compounding Pharmacy in Salt Lake City, owner and pharmacist Dean Jolley has seen an influx of customers looking for remedies and preventive care.
“It comes in cycles,” Jolley explained. “This time of year, there’s more flu and colds in general. Come spring, people warm up, get healthy again, and have less of it.”
Illnesses Spreading Quickly
Many Utah residents have noticed an increase in sickness within their families and communities.
“We were going to have our grandchildren over last week, but they couldn’t come because my grandson got sick,” said Salt Lake City resident Sally Odekirk.
Similarly, Deborah McFarlane shared how quickly illness has been spreading in her family.
“My son and his wife visited friends and got sick from their daughter. Then, they passed it to her mother, who got very sick, and eventually, she passed it to my son,” McFarlane said. “He says everyone at work has been sick, and people haven’t been able to come in.”
With flu, colds, and other viruses spreading quickly, experts warn that small germs can cause big disruptions in schools, workplaces, and households.
How to Stay Healthy
Jolley recommends several simple but effective strategies to boost immunity and reduce the risk of infection:
- Take Multivitamins and Vitamin C: Strengthening the immune system with daily vitamins can help the body fight off infections.
- Practice Good Hygiene: Frequent handwashing and sanitizing commonly touched surfaces can prevent germs from spreading.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat a Balanced Diet: A well-nourished body is better equipped to fight off viruses.
- Wear a Mask in Crowded Places: For those at higher risk, masking can provide extra protection in areas where flu cases are prevalent.
Vaccination and Medical Advice
Dr. Ellie Brownstein, a pediatrician, told FOX 13 News that flu rates are currently very high in Utah, and she strongly encourages parents to get their children vaccinated if they haven’t already.
Even though flu season is well underway, it’s not too late to get the flu shot. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu vaccines can reduce the severity of symptoms even if someone contracts the virus after vaccination.
The Impact on Families and Workplaces
As illnesses spread, many families are struggling to adjust. Parents are dealing with sick children, workplaces are seeing increased absenteeism, and health clinics are experiencing more visits.
Jolley emphasized that while over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms, rest and hydration remain key to recovery.
“People just need to be aware and take care of themselves. If you’re sick, stay home so you don’t pass it to others,” Jolley advised.
With weeks left in flu season, staying proactive can make all the difference in keeping individuals and families healthy.
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