In patients with viral bronchitis, 45% still have a cough after two weeks, and 25% still have a cough after three weeks. Be patient; it takes a long time for your body to get over a virus.
Tip of the Week #24
A child should be examined by a doctor three months after an ear infection to make sure there is no fluid left in the ear as this may lead to hearing problems. There is no need to see a doctor immediately after an ear infection if the child is feeling better. As many as half of all children with ear infections still have fluid in the ear after one month. This is normal and will go away by three months in most children.
Tip of the Week #17
Decongestants and cough syrup often contain acetaminophen. Always check labels or ask your pharmacist for help to avoid overdosing.
Tip of the Week #1
Eighty percent of common infections can be spread by the hands. Handwashing is the best way to stop the spread of infections.
Tip of the Week #10
When soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol based hand sanitizer to kill germs on your hands. Read the label to make sure that the alcohol content is at least 60%. Do not use alcohol free hand sanitizers. Only alcohol based hand sanitizers containing alcohol as the only active ingredient are recommended by the Public Health Agency of Canada
Tip of the Week #19
Practice good respiratory etiquette. Sneeze or cough into a tissue. If you don’t have a tissue, use your sleeve. Throw away used tissues promptly and wash your hands. Keep your fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
Tip of the Week #2
Always wash your hands after using the bathroom, before and after changing diapers or helping a child use the toilet.
Tip of the Week #28
Sinusitis is caused by viruses up to 200 times more often than bacteria. A yellow or green drainage from the nose does not mean you have a bacterial infection!
Tip of the Week #39
Bacterial infections are less common than viral infections and don’t spread as easily from one person to another.
Tip of the Week #35
Disinfectants will kill 99.9% of germs on hard, smooth surfaces. They must be used at the right concentration and for the right amount of time to be effective. Disinfectants are not intended for use on the skin.