Dr Sooj says there are a number of kitchen staples you need as a highly-contagious bug sweeps the UK
An NHS GP says there are kitchen cupboard staple ingredients we should all be stocking up on as a “highly contagious” bug spreads across the UK. Doctor Sooj says there is a list of ingredients we all need to keep in stock – including honey, lemon and apple juice, as well as painkillers and specific throat sprays.
The doctor’s advice comes as data released by the NHS shows a severe outbreak of norovirus is sweeping the nation. The research found a 29% increase in cases between 23 September and 6 October – double the amount expected for this time of year.
Dr Sooj said: “Are you worried about catching this cough/cold/runny nose that seems to be going around everyone at the moment? If so, here are my top tips and home remedies that will help you stay healthy.”
With Christmas parties and dinners on the horizon, the GP starts by reminding people of basic hygiene tips such as keeping windows or doors open during large gatherings, washing hands regularly and avoiding touching your face. He also warns against sharing cups, plates and more with people who are exhibiting symptoms like a cough or runny nose.
If you are unfortunate enough to come down with sickness, Doctor Sooj said: “Stay well hydrated, as this can soothe your throat, ease congestion and it can prevent dehydration. You can try mixing hot water with apple juice for extra comfort.
“Remember, honey and lemon are great for a sore throat, and whilst lots of people do recommend vitamin C and zinc, studies do show mixed results – but it shouldn’t hurt to try them out, [just] don’t rely on them by themselves.”
Doctor Sooj added: “Rinsing your nasal passageways and sinuses with saline can clear mucuses – but do not use tap water straight from a tap. Either boil and cool it, use sterile saline or distilled water.”
The doctor also recommends using pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce pain if needed, particularly in the case of a sore throat. Or buying a humidifier. He said: “A cool mist humidifier can help by adding moisture to the air, and this can ease congestion – but make sure to change the water daily and clean the unit as directed to prevent mould growth.”
When it comes to nasal sprays, Doctor Sooj warns against using some types. He said: “I do not ever recommend nasal sprays that contain oxymetazoline, pseudoephedrine, or phenylephrine and things like that. But nasal sprays that contain steroids can be helpful at reducing your symptoms when you’ve had sinusitis or rhinitis for longer than a couple of weeks.”
Finally, he shared his favourite home remedy – gargling with warm salt water. Dr Sooj added: “This can help to relieve a sore throat and flush out bacteria. “It’s particularly good for tonsil and throat infections.”
When sneezing or coughing, the GP also recommends using a tissue and immediately binning it, followed by washing hands after. For norovirus specifically, Doctor Sooj added: “Avoid it by trying to isolate if you have it and avoid contact with those who have it, and stay off work/school/university/college until 48 hours after symptoms have resolved.
“Stay well hydrated: apple juice mixed with water in a 50:50 split is great for preventing dehydration. “
