9 Things You Should Do at the First Sign of the Flu

How you take care of yourself when flu symptoms start can make a difference in how long the symptoms of the virus last.

Take the flu seriously. Influenza - not to be confused with the common cold - is a serious disease, causing 12,200 hospitalizations and killing up to 3,500 people in Canada each year. The severity of the disease varies from year to year but one thing is for certain: You have to take influenza seriously, and that starts with knowing what to do as soon as you start feeling the tell-tale symptoms of the flu.

Try to prevent it by getting a flu shot. The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year.

In general, flu shots are a way to help reduce symptoms and hopefully prevent hospitalizations and deaths, rather than a guarantee that people won’t get sick at all.

The first sign of the flu. The first signs of flu can include flu symptoms are OTC pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, especially if you have a fever. It can help reduce your symptoms and provide flu relief.

Get more sleep. Sleeping helps lessen the effects of the flu and helps you recover faster. It’s not just the physical rest - giving your brain a break could help enhance your defenses.

Fuel with food. “If you are able to eat, stock up on foods that can help boost your immune system.” This includes yogurt, fruits like blueberries and vegetables like broccoli.

For those feeling nauseous, chicken soup is another option - it can help reduce inflammation, clear up mucus, and ease congestion.

Drink up. Water is always best to keep you hydrated and help loosen up mucus, but any liquid without caffeine will do. If you’re starting to have water fatigue, try ginger ale, diluted juice, broth, or decaffeinated tea.

Skip the coffee. Coffee and tea with caffeine can dehydrate you. Dehydration may make your symptoms feel worse and your sickness lasts longer. While this probably goes without saying, alcohol has the same effect: Though it may be tempting, that hot toddy isn’t going to help you feel better.