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Treatment
In the early shivery stages, hot ginger, cinnamon, or even cayenne pepper teas are recommended to increase the circulation and warmth.
Prevention would be ideal although during epidemics, this is not easy. Taking only fluids during the early stages may help. When aching and chilled, try a hot bath with
Epsom salts just before going to bed.
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At feverish stage, take elderflower tea or fruit juices, and apply a cold pack on the trunk. As always with cold packs and compresses, immediately cover with a thick towel or blanket to encourage warmth and sweating.
Vitamins, especially vitamin A and vitamin C may be prescribed.
Garlic is also considered very good for fighting infection.
With rest, extra drinks and paracetemol or aspirin as required - usually two tablets every four hours, up to a maximum of eight in 24 hours - most healthy young people recover from influenza without medical treatment. Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses, but doctors prescribe them for secondary bacterial infections such as bronchitis or pneumonia, or to prevent complications.
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