In Anticipation of the Cold and Flu Season: The Next Generation
written by Jasmin Sandhu

My mother used to tell me I should never leave the house with my hair wet, the assumption being I would automatically fall prey to the sniffles or something much, much worse. I will admit, she was partially correct with regards to the dangerous reality of living with a weakened immune system. I have since become aware of my options and have decided to fight, rather than succumb to the weather, bugs and viruses.

As winter looms around the corner, we are reminded that we have to safeguard our minds and bodies against the eventuality that we all face: the cold and flu season. Many people will just pop a few pills or drink some over the counter concoction in hopes of dodging those nasty viruses. What they may not realise is that there is a world of possibilities out there to strengthen and heal their bodies from the stresses of everyday urban living. That in turn, will result in fewer physical ailments and a decreased susceptibility to disease.

The 'flu shot' is an excellent supplement to aid in prevention, but requires the patient to be healthy enough to take it an average of two weeks prior to potential exposure, says a Health Canada survey. It is recommended to those who are constant risk of infection as well as those who are at a high risk of developing serious complications as a result. The flu shot aids the body's immune system in producing antibodies against the inactivated virus in the vaccine. In case one is exposed to the real virus, the antibodies will prevent or reduce the likelihood of severe illness should the infection occur.

"The lungs are obviously the primary area of worry for the body," says registered massage therapist Fayez Surani of Shams Esthetics, a health and wellness facility in Mississauga. "At the earliest stage of (cold or flu development) I would take Echinacea and a mega dose of vitamin C. Even up to 3000 IU (international units) of vitamin C and a mega dose of Echinacea is a good preventative for the cold and flu."

Health Canada reports that 1 in 4, or 1 in 10 people might be infected with influenza each season. While fatalities vary each year, the number is estimated to be approximately 500 to 1500 deaths per influenza season.

The fist stage of prevention is identification. Do you have the flu or could it be case of allergies or a common cold? According to Health Canada, influenza is usually a more severe illness than the common cold, which is caused by other respiratory viruses. Influenza typically showcases symptoms including headaches, chills and cough followed rapidly by a fever, appetite loss, muscle aches and tiredness. Cold symptoms are limited to the upper respiratory tract with runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, and throat irritation. Children, adults over the age of 65 and those who suffer from long-term or chronic health problems should take extra precautions during the winter season, to avoid unnecessary complications.

"Auyervedic is one of the best remedies there is," says Surani. "Honey has always been used, historically, to cure any type of disease. Turmeric (commonly known as haldi) is supposed to be a natural antibiotic. Using honey, turmeric and ginger, make a paste out of it and have it in the morning (before starting your day) and once again at night before bed."

Eucalyptus oil, when applied externally to the chest cavity, around the nose and head area are also effective and can be found in the kitchen or bathroom. Noticeably more popular therapies like massage, ear candling and acupuncture, are credited with improving circulation as well as accelerating the body's own recovery process. Aside form being a registered massage therapist, Surani is also an established acupuncturist and aroma therapist, and has studied nutrition as well. "For allergies, we have a certain protocol," he says. "We have certain acupuncture points- that are very good to prevent allergies and help take care of existing allergies. As far as massage therapy goes, it is very, very effective when you work on the back, to stimulate the mucous drainage."

Practicing common sense is still the safest alternative to avoid regular visits to the doctor's office. We are told to constantly wash our hands, especially when we come into contact with someone who may be infected. Regular exercise, adequate intake of fluids and sleep, as well as a nutritious diet will also help the body maintain resistance. Health Canada says technically influenza isn't bound by the seasons, but occurs mostly in the winter months. So what to do? Hibernate? Vacation in the tropics? Absolutely not! You will enjoy the Canadian winter with some precautions. So the next time you see a snowflake that signals the start of winter, or sneeze on the bus- don't get up and run away. Grab a cup of hot ginger tea, and bundle up. You have the knowledge and the tools to fight back!