Flu Season Far From Over: What to Do if You Catch the Virus
Melissa Velez
Registered nurse Melissa Velez tells Newsmax Health that a trip to the emergency room is warranted if you  a loved one  or your child feel like you are unable to breathe normally  can’t eat  or have a fever that does not go down with medication.
“The most important thing is to stay home  rest and stay hydrated. Drink plenty of clear fluids to prevent dehydration and avoid close contact with others ” says  Velez .  She  advises staying home from work or school and not returning until you have been fever free for at least 24 hours.
Holistic health coach Deanna Durso echoes  Velez ’s sentiments on the importance of hydration  telling Newsmax Health it’s one of the most important aspects of fighting off the flu.
Experts also suggest lots of rest to fight the flu  but advise not lying flat on your back  which can make it harder to clear your lungs and the position can lead to increased coughing fits.  Velez  suggests lying propped up with a few pillows instead.
 She  adds that grandma’s wisdom about chicken noodle soup being a panacea may be true  but alcohol should be avoided. It can contribute to dehydration and  although it can make you sleepy  it doesn’t lead to quality REM sleep.  She  says alcohol will likely make you feel worse.
 Velez  says the best medication for the flu  other than Tamiflu (which should be taken within the first 48 hours that symptoms emerge)  is an over-the-counter fever reducer like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Although suitable for adults  these medications are not advised for use in children under age 2.
[TGT] tells Newsmax Health that a trip to the emergency room is warranted if you  a loved one  or your child feel like you are unable to breathe normally  can’t eat  or have a fever that does not go down with medication.
“The most important thing is to stay home  rest and stay hydrated. Drink plenty of clear fluids to prevent dehydration and avoid close contact with others ” says  [TGT][TGT]  advises staying home from work or school and not returning until you have been fever free for at least 24 hours.
Holistic health coach Deanna Durso echoes  Velez ’s sentiments on the importance of hydration  telling Newsmax Health it’s one of the most important aspects of fighting off the flu.
Experts also suggest lots of rest to fight the flu  but advise not lying flat on your back  which can make it harder to clear your lungs and the position can lead to increased coughing fits.  [TGT]suggests lying propped up with a few pillows instead.
 [TGT]  adds that grandma’s wisdom about chicken noodle soup being a panacea may be true  but alcohol should be avoided. It can contribute to dehydration and  although it can make you sleepy  it doesn’t lead to quality REM sleep.  She  says alcohol will likely make you feel worse.
 [TGT]says the best medication for the flu  other than Tamiflu (which should be taken within the first 48 hours that symptoms emerge)  is an over-the-counter fever reducer like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Although suitable for adults  these medications are not advised for use in children under age 2.