Keep dry. Keep warm, and keep out of drafts. That’s my June message as winter days start and bite. Avoid those who sneeze, specially in lifts and confined spaces.  Their bugs can travel 3 metres or more, specially if directed towards you.  Avoid coughers (Coffin is bad news)

Don’t shake hands with anyone with a cold or running nose. There are billions of infectious viruses on their hand, specially as you see them wipe a dripping nose before extending the hand of fellowship. If they insist, wash it under a tap with soap and warm water as soon as possible. Certainly do not place them near your eyes or lips, for germs are quickly transferable, specially if your are a bit cool.

In fact, with every degree of body temperature below normal, germs can multiply at twice the usual rate.  That means infected nose, throat, lungs, eyes, within ten minutes or less.

Lemon and Honey!

Drink lots of water based fluids, lemon  and honey is good, but avoid sugary fizz which is useless.

Eat three nutritious hot meals a day (hot soup for lunch is great), walk for 30 minute at lunch break, get some early nights and at least 6-8 hours sleep a night.  Sleep beats TV, and improves your body’s resistance to bugs.

Gargling and zinc lozenges relieve sore throat. 2,500 mg vitamin C a day may improve resistance, and a multi vitamin-mineral tablet a day could improve overall health, but this is still debated.  Avoid smoking or smokers – that is certain. Be nice to everybody and think positive thoughts of success.

The Dow and ASX are at record highs, and good times are here forever. Echinacea is pretty useless for colds, but try it if you like or are convinced.  No antibiotics. Yes to the flu shot.  Pneumovax if over 65. See your GP.

By the way, if you or the rellies need accommodation in their senior years,  ring David on 02 9868 7544 regarding lovely Vimiera Village at Eastwood in Sydney.  Independent living units, and assisted living (meals, laundry etc provided ) are readily available at  affordable costs.

Till next month, your friend