Feeling the little nip in the air lately? It is that time of the year to get your flu jab. Even if you’ve had your Covid-19 vaccine, you still have to protect yourself from the flu virus. And just for a little extra protection, you can make healthy drinks to give your immune system a little boost this winter.
We all know that it is no fun when flu gets you down, that is why you have to work on being as healthy as possible before the virus gets its claws into you. The first line of defense is getting a flu injection.
Pharmacy retailer Clicks has urged all South Africans to get vaccinated against influenza this winter season. Clicks pharmacist Waheed Abdurahman told Cape Talk that the new shot this year included protection against the latest flu strains detected for the 2022 season.
Abdurahman adds that getting vaccinated against both Covid-19 and influenza provides people with greater immune protection during the ongoing pandemic.
“It’s important to protect yourself against whatever you can and the flu vaccine is one of those things that one should predict.”
Mzansi’s most vulnerable are especially encouraged to get their shot.
Make your own remedies
There are a few remedies that will help to get your system in tiptop shape.
You can make your own at home but it is always advisable that you seek medical advice before attempting any natural remedies. Don’t be scared to ask your doctor those tricky questions.
Try these dietary flu “shots”, a mixture of immune-boosting ingredients in a shot-glass. They are packed with immune-boosting nutrients, antimicrobial properties, and pain-relieving and decongestant effects.
Red hot flu-fighting shot
Ingredients
1 crushed garlic clove
30ml fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon honey
½ teaspoon lemon zest
1 level teaspoon finely grated or chopped fresh ginger
1 red chilli, finely chopped
METHOD:
- Combine all the ingredients in a small glass and drink it all in one go.
- If you have very sore throat, you may want to try the milder version below.
Soothing flu shot
1 crushed garlic clove
25ml fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon finely grated or chopped fresh ginger.
METHOD
- Combine all the ingredients in a small glass and drink it all in one go.
Soothing tea
2 green tea bags
1 large lemon, sliced
Fresh ginger root – 2 pieces of approximately 5 cm, cleaned and roughly chopped
1 tablespoon honey
METHOD
- In a teapot, combine 2 teabags with 600ml boiling water. Add sliced lemon, chopped ginger and honey and let stand for 5 – 10 minutes. Drink 200ml 3 times per day.
