Treating Colds and Flu

It is cold and flu season, and we are experiencing a spike in call volumes, clinic appointments and hospital visits. The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your family. Summerville Family Health Team currently has a limited supply of flu vaccines. If interested, please call your primary care provider to schedule an appointment or visit your local pharmacy to get your flu vaccine. If you are over the age of 65 or with complex health conditions, please let us know if you get your flu shot elsewhere so we can update your medical record.

Many people with cold and flu symptoms will recover on their own and do not require prescription medication like antibiotics. We recommend patients self-isolate and rest, and drink plenty of fluids. You can also try:

• Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen (for fever and aches every 6 hours as needed)
• Lozenges – for sore throat
• Nasal Saline Rinses – for nasal congestion
• Chicken Soup – for overall wellness and hydration
• Honey – for cough and sore throat (for those over 1 year old)
• Tea – to help with congestion and sore throat

For infants/children: See “When to come to the Emergency Department” to help determine if your child needs emergency care. Children’s fever and pain medication have been in short supply. Some pharmacies will maintain a supply behind the counter, or may be able to provide alternate options without a prescription (i.e., chewable tablets, suppositories). See this tips sheet on Caring for Children with Respiratory Symptoms, created by the Ontario College of Family Physicians. And, you may find A Parent’s Guide to Giving Acetaminophen Tablets to Children available for download below helpful.

Viral illnesses, like cold and flu symptoms, typically require rest and recovery at home rather than a doctor. We ask that you try the above recommendations and call us if you have concerns or you are not getting better or symptoms have worsened after a few days. We would be happy to schedule a virtual appointment first to determine if you need to be assessed in the office.

Due to the high volume of calls, wait times will be longer on the phone, we ask that you continue to be patient. If you have a scheduled appointment please ensure attend your appointments as scheduled or call the office if you are unable to make your appointment so that we may book someone else during that time.

As we move through this cold and flu season, remember that good handwashing, masking and staying home when sick will also help prevent the
spread of viral illness.