AD FEATURE: Beat back-to-school bugs with expert pharmacy advice

Beat back-to-school bugs with expert pharmacy advice Fix everyday health woes with a quick trip to Superdrug Pharmacy When classroom germs hit home, the last thing busy parents need is the stress of trying to book a GP visit. Superdrug senior pharmacy manager Tahera Dewji shares her top tips on keeping seasonal coughs and colds at bay this winter, plus how to fix everyday family health woes fast. Learn how your local Superdrug pharmacist can offer free, expert walk-in advice and direct access to prescription-strength treatments without the wait. Q. I'm keen to avoid the seasonal coughs and colds that my six-year-old daughter tends to pick up at school in winter. Have you got any advice on how we can prevent catching them, or limit the effects to avoid her taking time off school through illness? Veronica, 41, London A. Colds are caused by viruses that spread easily from person to person, often before symptoms even begin. Speak to your Superdrug pharmacist about which over-the-counter cough and cold remedies might work for you and your little one. Your Superdrug pharmacist will be able to advise which medicines are evidence-based and appropriate for your symptoms. You can help protect yourself and those around you by washing your hands regularly with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. This can help wash away viruses picked up from surfaces and other people. Encourage your daughter to wash her hands when she gets home from school, before eating, and of course after using the toilet. Consider carrying hand sanitiser so you can keep hands clean when you’re out and about too. It’s also worth keeping frequently touched surfaces clean, particularly during the winter months when germs and viruses can spread quickly through households. Regularly wipe down door handles, light switches, phones and remote controls with antibacterial wipes or sprays. If someone in the family has a cold, avoid sharing items such as towels, cups, cutlery or water bottles where possible. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue and bin any used tissues immediately, as this helps to catch and dispose of the virus effectively. Little ones may need reminding of this, but it’s a good habit to teach, and they’re never too young to learn. If a tissue isn’t available, coughing or sneezing into the crook of your elbow can help prevent germs from spreading onto your hands. Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, as viruses enter the body this way. It can also help to encourage your daughter to keep her hands away from her face, particularly when she is at school. Looking after your overall health can also help support your immune system during the winter months. Try to maintain a regular sleep pattern, so you and your family get enough rest. Sleep is particularly important for children, so a consistent bedtime routine can be a useful part of keeping them well. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables each day and make sure everyone is getting a balanced diet. Vitamin D is important too, and we don’t get as much from sunlight during the winter months; speak to your Superdrug pharmacist if you’re unsure whether you or your child may benefit from a supplement. It’s also important for children to get enough calcium, as it is important for healthy bone growth, and some research suggests it may also play a role in normal immune function. Be sure to exercise regularly, even though it might be harder when the days are darker and colder as the winter draws in. A family walk, bike ride or trip to the local park can all be good ways to keep moving. Fresh air and regular activity can help children maintain healthy routines. Small everyday habits can make a big difference in reducing the spread of colds and helping everyone to stay well this winter. And if illness does strike, your local Superdrug pharmacist can offer advice on how to manage symptoms and whether further treatment is appropriate. Remember, you can always pop into Superdrug Pharmacy without booking ahead to get expert clinical advice. Through the Pharmacy First Service* you may also be eligible for treatment from your pharmacist for the following seven conditions: middle ear infection (for those aged 1-17 years of age), impetigo (1 year and over); infected insect bites (1 year and over); shingles (18 years and over): sinusitis (12 years and over); sore throat (5 years and over) and urinary tract infections (women aged 16- 64 years). Find out how your local Superdrug Pharmacy can help today. This service is subject to consultation with a Superdrug pharmacist. *Available from pharmacies in England only. Age restrictions may apply. This is an NHS-funded service, where prescription charges may apply if treatment is supplied.