Separating flu facts from fiction for better illness care
Cold weather does not cause the flu and the virus spreads via contaminated surfaces or droplets. The flu shot uses inactivated virus and is unlikely to cause illness, while nasal vaccines carry tiny risk. Do not starve a fever, stay hydrated, and eat healthy. Zinc and vitamin C offer mixed benefits. Last year’s vaccine may not cover current strains. Antibiotics do not cure the flu but may treat bacterial complications.