Arriving down from Christchurch, or from other parts of the world with the beginning of the new semester, influenza is here again. Symptoms are more serious than a cold, characterised by a fever, aches and pains, fatigue (more than normal uni fatigue) and a complete inability to concentrate on studies. The Ministry of Health has recently extended the ’flu season to the end of August, in recognition of its late arrival in this part of the world. Vaccinations are still being done, from a pharmacy or from Student Health. You may qualify for a free one from Student Health if you have a special condition such as asthma. So far, we have heard of only one male fainting, and that was before the vaccination was given.
Although you cannot cure the ’flu, you can control the symptoms. If you have pain, a combination of paracetamol and ibuprofen is very effective. Dextromethorphan is a very good cough suppressant for a dry cough and comes in a liquid, or a lozenge if you prefer sucking on something. Note that it is important to distinguish between a “dry” and a “wet” cough. The former should be suppressed (especially in lecture theatres). A “wet” cough is when there is an infection, either viral, like the ’flu, or a secondary bacterial infection. In this instance, it is better to cough and clear the throat and lungs of any exudate or “phlegm” that will be preventing the lungs from operating well.
If your nose is blocked, a nasal spray is extremely effective in clearing it within minutes. In former years, pseudoephedrine or “sudomyl” was the medicine of choice for clearing blocked nasal and ear passages until the occurrence of methamphetamine and “P labs” and the subsequent reclassification of pseudoephedrine to a controlled drug.
With these sorts of symptoms, you may need to call on the trusty flattie to do an emergency run for supplies. Stay home, keep warm and drink lots of water!