Flu accounts for 4.5m days of absenteeism. Here’s how to keep employees safe

Despite an effective influenza vaccine having been available for many years, flu continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality both in South Africa and worldwide, and has a detrimental effect on businesses, both directly and indirectly.

5 misconceptions about the flu vaccine

Despite over 60 years of medical research, clinical trials and proven safety and efficacy, as well as the fact that the flu vaccine can reduce the chances of getting sick by up to 60%, many myths and misconceptions about the potentially life saving medical intervention still exist.

Experts reveal the ultimate cold-weather wellness menu

Flu season is almost upon us, and so are days of feeling groggy, painful and simply not in the mood to do anything. While eating may be the last thing on our minds when we aren't feeling well, eating the right foods is the best way to get yourself up and running.

Trying to keep colds and flus at bay this winter? Here’s what you need in your kit

While seasonal flu is common, the coronavirus has taught us that we can’t be over-prepared when it comes to fighting off symptoms that could point to or result in a far more serious infection or illness.

Why one shot can save your child’s life this winter

While most children who contract flu are ill for less than a week, some children can develop a more serious illness and may need to hospitalised. In extreme cases, the flu can lead to pneumonia with potentially fatal consquences.

Exactly how can flu damage your heart?

There is a reason why you shouldn't exercise when you are suffering (and even recovering) from flu. We know the rules - when you're sick, it's better to rest than to risk it, especially if your body is fighting an infection.

Flu vaccine hesitancy: Four key cultural factors

Winter is approaching, and with it comes the annual peak of flu season, generally starting in April and peaking in June. Getting vaccinated is the best way to reduce illness and death from seasonal flu

A checklist to determine if you can exercise after the flu

You're doing well with your workout – until the dreaded winter cold or flu strikes. Here's how to ease back into things once you feel better.

Why it’s worth paying attention to influenza

We’ve all been there - the sore throat, runny nose and cough. Often, feeling like this is due to the common cold, especially if the onset is gradual and the symptoms quite mild.

Can I get flu from my dog?

Humans and animals have been in contact with each other for years. Not only have people been using animals as livestock and for transport, but also as companions.

Who should get a flu vaccine, and why it’s important

Severe illness as a result of influenza can happen to anyone at any age, but some people are at higher risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick.

Should I get the flu vaccine? South African experts say yes - here’s why

The winter months are synonymous with the flu in South Africa. Similar to other countries in the southern hemisphere, South Africa has an annual influenza season stretching from April to August.

Flu season is back! Experts recommend getting vaccinated

Feverish, achy, zero energy, a throat like you've swallowed razorblades, a lingering cough,
even tummy issues... The flu doing the rounds is no joke and if we haven’t had it ourselves yet, we’re bound to know someone who has.

Can you really ‘catch a cold’ from wet hair? Debunking winter health myths

“Don’t go outside with wet hair—you’ll get sick!” is probably something you’ve heard from your mother or some other older relative with the aim of protecting your health, but how much truth is there to this statement and the others so frequently repeated to us that we have accepted them as truth?

8 Simple Ways To Boost Your Immune System Before Cold and Flu Season

Many of us get the sniffles or get very sick during the colder months and this often means missing days of work or school to recover.

From onion socks to chicken soup: An expert reveals truths behind health-related old wives' tales

Have you ever been told to gargle with salt water when you have a sore throat or stop drinking milk when you have a virus or cold?

Is there a difference between winter and summer colds?

Colds are very contagious and are mostly spread when small drops of fluid are inhaled or transferred by touch, and altogether there are more than 200 viruses that can cause symptoms like coughing, sneezing and a runny nose.

Is it a cold or the flu? How to tell the difference (and what to do next)

It starts with a sneeze. But it’s just a sneeze, right? Then you start coughing and get a headache. Oh no! You’re sick. Now you’re knee deep in tissues, trying to treat it with a pharmacy’s worth of medicine, but you should be asking yourself ‘Is it a cold or the flu?’

What’s the difference between ‘man flu’ and flu?

The term “man flu” takes a humorous poke at men with minor respiratory infections, such as colds, who supposedly exaggerate their symptoms.