In the hectic rush to get things done every day, it is easy to overlook the warning signs of an impending cold or flu. After all, it could be dust or pet fur causing your runny nose or that satisfying but spicy meal that’s to blame for your hoarse voice or scratchy throat.
But what if it’s not? What if a cold or flu is lying in wait just around the corner? Here is why you shouldn’t ignore these early symptoms and what you can do about it.
When to treat cold or flu: You should treat a cold or flu as soon as you notice symptoms. The sooner you recover, the better, and you won’t have to worry about passing the sickness to others.
Use (POVIDONE-IODINE) BETADINE® Sore Throat Gargle, (POVIDONE-IODINE) BETADINE® Sore Throat Spray, BETADINE® Cold Defense Nasal Spray, and BETADINE® ThroatAid Lozenges to help treat cold and flu symptoms
Symptoms can appear in as little as one day after exposure. 1 2
These include:
Common symptoms of a cold 3
Cough
Runny or stuffy nose
Sneezing
Sore throat
Watery eyes
Common symptoms of the flu 3
Body ache
Chest congestion
Chills
Cough
Fatigue
Fever
Headache
Nausea or loss of appetite
The BETADINE® range of cold and flu treatments is formulated with effective ingredients known for antiviral properties that help relieve symptoms of cold and flu.
(POVIDONE-IODINE) BETADINE® Sore Throat Gargle Sore Throat Gargle and Mouthwash is formulated to kill 99.99% of sore-throat causing viruses in as early as 30 seconds.* Its active ingredient, 1% povidone-iodine (PVPI), has been used for over 60 years and continues to be effective in fighting the viruses, bacteria, and fungi commonly to blame for a sore throat. To use, just dilute equal parts of mouthwash with water. Take a small amount, rinse the mouth, and spit it out, then use the balance to gargle for 30 seconds, ensuring it reaches the back of the throat, then spit it out. You can do this 2-4 times a day. 4
(POVIDONE-IODINE) BETADINE® Sore Throat Spray is a convenient on-the-go option, delivering 0.45% povidone-iodine (PVPI) directly to the throat, kills 99.99% of sore-throat causing viruses in as early as 30 seconds*. To use, spray it directly into the back of the throat every 3-4 hours to relieve throat pain and discomfort. 5
BETADINE® Cold Defense Nasal Spray traps and eliminates cold-causing viruses with a steroid-free formulation that contains natural Carragelose™. This ingredient, derived from a type of red seaweed, helps by forming a protective layer on the nasal lining, trapping viruses and preventing their further growth. Before using, blow your nose gently to clear the nasal passages, then shake the bottle and pump the spray until a fine mist comes out. Next, tilt your head slightly forward. Breathing out, close one nostril and gently insert the nozzle into the other, then gently squeeze the pump once while breathing in. Repeat for the other nostril. You may do this 3 times daily. 6
BETADINE® ThroatAid Lozenges contains Dichlorobenzyl Alcohol Amylmetacresol, antimicrobial agents to fight sore throat causing infection, with ingredients such as honey, lemon and eucalyptus to help provide soothing relieve. Dissolve one lozenge slowly in the mouth every 2-3 hours to relieve the pain and discomfort of a sore throat. 7
Get to the cause of cold and flu for faster recovery 1 2 8: The common cold and flu (influenza) are both caused by viruses that attack the nose, mouth, throat, and lungs. They are passed from person to person, so early treatment also benefits the people around us. While colds do not generally lead to serious health issues, the flu can be dangerous, especially for those who are vulnerable to flu-related complications, such as older persons aged 65 and above, pregnant women, and those with chronic conditions.
Remember, antibiotics are not effective against viruses, so the best thing we can do is get to the root of the problem with a proven and effective range of cold and flu treatments like the BETADINE® Cold and Flu range to kill the viruses and bacteria that cause cold and flu symptoms.
When to see a doctor: Many people recover from a cold or flu with rest and self-treatment, but if your symptoms persist or worsen, you should see a doctor for further advice.
