Swine flu rumors confirmed

COMMUNITY members have recently been sharing their stories on social media regarding how they have been affected by the alleged swine flu.

According to a local doctor who wished to remain anonymous, at least eight locals have been tested and treated for swine flu.

Most of the people affected were schoolchildren.

“Others have been treated according to symptoms, but it is by no means an outbreak or epidemic,” said this doctor.

He informed the Vryheid Herald that this is a strain known as Influenza B.

“People are panicking because of the ‘swine flu’ association with it, but we haven’t had cases in about a week so it’s most likely over,” he said.

He also added that people most susceptible to this strain are children under 2, pregnant women and elderly people over 65.

Here are 5 home remedies for flu you can try:

Hot Toddy

This adult drink is an age-old nighttime cold remedy. Since you won’t want to drink black tea and all that caffeine before bed, make a cup of hot herbal tea. Add a teaspoon of honey, a small shot of whiskey or bourbon, and a squeeze of lemon. This mixture may ease congestion, soothe your throat, alleviate your cough, and help you sleep. Limit yourself to one — too much alcohol can keep you awake.

Chicken Soup

Grandma was onto something. Chicken soup may help cold symptoms in more than one way. Inhaling the steam can ease a stuffy nose. Sipping spoonfuls of it can help replace the fluids you lose. The warm, salty broth can alleviate sore throats.

Garlic

It’s long been known as a germ fighter. And one study showed garlic supplements may help prevent colds when taken daily. But more research needs to be done to figure out its real effects. It does have nutrients, and in food form it can also help spice up your meals when a stuffy nose makes everything taste bland.

Steam/Humidifier

Breathing in steam can break up congestion in your nose, offering relief when it’s stuffy or runny. You can get a heavy dose from a room humidifier, fill a bowl with hot water and lean over it with a towel over your head, or simply sit in the bathroom with the door shut and a hot shower running.

Saline Irrigation

Dripping or spraying saltwater into your nose can thin out the gunk and help you get rid of it. That makes you less stuffy. You can try over-the-counter nasal saline washes, or make your own.