Here are some at-home treatment tips for viral infections:
- Get lots of rest.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Keep a humidifier by your bed to help with stuffiness.
- Use saline nasal sprays or drops for a stuffy nose.
- If you have a sore throat, try using ice chips, throat lozenges or spray.
- If you have a fever, you can take a fever reducer such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Motrin/Advil (ibuprofen).
Ways you can help prevent both viral and bacterial infections include:
- Washing your hands properly and often.
- Avoiding those who are sick and staying home when you are sick.
- Covering your mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing.
- Making sure you are up to date with COVID and flu vaccines.
- If you can get well without taking a course of antibiotics, then that's the best course of action.