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® Oral Gargle and (POVIDONE-IODINE) BETADINE® Throat Spray to help treat mouth and throat-related early symptoms of cold and flu.
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 throat care treatments is formulated with effective ingredients known for antiviral properties that help relieve early symptoms of cold and flu, particlarly sore throat.
POVIDONE-IODINE (BETADINE®) Oral 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®) Throat Spray is a convenient on-the-go option, delivering 0.45% povidone-iodine (PVPI) directly to the throat, also kills 99.99% of sore-throat causing viruses in as early as 30 seconds (based on in-vitro data). To use, spray it directly into the back of the throat every 3-4 hours to relieve throat pain and discomfort. 5
Get to the root cause of sore throat, cold and flu for faster recovery1, 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 proven and effective throat care treatments like the BETADINE® Throat Care range of products to kill the viruses and bacteria that cause cold and flu early 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.
