(BPT) - Winter is prime time for coughs, colds and the flu, but a little planning can go a long way. Samantha Picking, Walgreens pharmacist and Senior Director, Immunizations, shares five simple ways to help protect yourself and your family this season.
Tip 1: Get vaccinated.
Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones against certain respiratory illnesses. It is important for everyone to stay up to date on recommended immunizations, including flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumococcal vaccines. And if you have not been vaccinated yet, it is not too late.
"Decades of scientific evidence, along with my own experience as a pharmacist, show that vaccines are a safe and effective way to protect against and reduce the severity of highly contagious illnesses, particularly among young children and elderly individuals," Picking said.
It is safe to receive multiple vaccinations during the same appointment, and doing so can make it easier to stay up to date. "Your local pharmacist can help determine which vaccines are recommended based on your medical history and current guidance," Picking said.
Patients can walk into their local Walgreens or schedule an appointment online through Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine, the Walgreens app or by calling 1-800-WALGREENS. Appointments can be scheduled for up to four people during the same visit.
Tip 2: Plan ahead for winter travel and gatherings.
Whether traveling or attending social events, staying informed about illness activity can help reduce risk.
"The Walgreens Respiratory Index is a great resource to check flu and COVID-19 activity nationwide," Picking said. "It provides real-time data to help people make informed decisions and take appropriate precautions."
Visit Walgreens.com/RespiratoryIndex to learn more.
Tip 3: Practice good hygiene.
Everyday preventive actions can help limit the spread of germs. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, cover your nose and mouth when sneezing, wash your hands frequently and for at least 20 seconds, and avoid touching your face.
"I also suggest keeping a small travel kit with hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, tissues and any necessary prescription medications," Picking said.
Tip 4: Get tested if you don't feel well.
If you are experiencing a runny nose, cough or other respiratory symptoms, consider getting tested to know with greater confidence which virus you may have so you can quickly take steps toward recovery.
"Getting tested is an easy way to get some peace of mind and ensure you get the right treatment as quickly as possible," Picking said.
Walgreens offers a range of convenient, low-cost options, including in-store and at-home tests for flu and COVID-19. With a positive in-store test, a Walgreens pharmacist may also be able to prescribe oral antiviral treatment for flu or COVID-19, where appropriate.
Tip 5: Stock up on health and wellness essentials.
Cold and flu season can be unpredictable, so it is important to be prepared in case symptoms develop.
For those who do not feel well enough to leave home, Walgreens offers virtual care consults and one-hour delivery of over-the-counter symptom relief products. Common items to keep on hand include Walgreens Sugar-Free Cough Drops, Walgreens Cough Mucus Relief DM, Walgreens Ibuprofen, and Walgreens Severe Sinus Congestion.
"I encourage patients to talk with their pharmacist or health care provider for guidance on managing symptoms," Picking said. "Before taking any over-the-counter medications, it is important to make sure they are appropriate for your health conditions and any medications you are currently taking."
Walgreens: Your partner in health
Walgreens pharmacists are available to help patients navigate vaccination recommendations, testing options and treatment needs throughout the winter season.
Learn more or schedule a vaccine appointment at Walgreens.com/ScheduleVaccine.
