Hello, Best wishes as winter suddenly emerges. Here are some simple tips Chances are high you’ll catch the common cold, or URTI, upper respiratory tract infection, we incorrectly call the flu. You’ll have an irritable running nose, probably a mild fever, scratchy throat, possibly a cough which comes and goes, feel a bit sweaty, tired and listless, and less cheery than usual.

Have some early nights, or maybe a day (or so) in a warm bed. Drink lots of fluid, water being best. Gargle the throat with warm salty water and take paracetamol 2 x 500 mg tablets three times a day (or even less) for fever aches and pains. Syrup for children. No aspirin

Many cough mixtures contain lots of sweetening and are not effective. Lemon and honey helps cut back throat phlegm, and settles cough. So does a steam inhalation. Add a few drops of eucalyptus or friars balsam or half tsp Vicks to 600 mLs boiling water and inhale (keep kids away from hot water.

Do not take left over antibiotics in the cupboard, and do not pressure your doctor. Most colds are caused by a virus. Colds are generally self curative with or without treatment, with simple measures. Of course, if certain bugs called bacteria invade, or other organs are infected, antibiotics may be needed, but often not.

Keep warm, avoid winds and chills, dry quickly if gear gets wet. Do not smoke and avoid smokers. Take some early nights. Multi-vitamins and vitamin C may help, but others are doubtful.

If your older parents or rellies need nice accommodation (say with meals provided and housework carried out), check out Vimiera Village. Phone David on 02 9868 7544 at 217 Vimiera Road, Eastwood, Sydney. Weekly costs are more than covered by the pension and governmental rental assistance (with modest ingoing charge).

Till next month.