Don't let the Flu get you down ...

It’s that time of year again when sniffling, sneezing, coughing, and stuffy heads are all around us.  October marks the “unofficial” start of cold and flu season, but you don’t have to let the flu bug get the best of you this year. Fight back by being well equipped to fight off any bug that comes your way. ShopRite has everything you need to help prevent to flu, plus all the items you’ll need if you start to feel under the weather.

Of course, good health habits like hand washing, managing stress, drinking fluids and avoiding contact with people who are sick are good preventive measures, but the single best way to protect against seasonal flu, according to the CDC, is yearly vaccination.  Shoprite can help.  We offer both flu and pneumonia vaccinations in our stores, which are scheduled to begin in October and run through mid-November, or call 1-800-ShopRite to find the date and time of the ShopRite flu clinic near you.  But remember; always check with your health care provider to determine if a vaccination is right for you.   

It’s hard to predict how bad the flu season might be, but it usually peaks in January or February and can last until April or May.  So if you’re bogged down by the nasty bug, here are some ideas that may help.  Drink plenty of fluids such as water, 100% juice and herbal teas, and don’t forget mom’s old remedy of chicken soup.  Also, increase your consumption of food and beverages rich in Vitamin C such as orange juice, grapefruit, lemon and limes, garlic and onions, and foods rich in zinc such as lean red meats, low fat milk, eggs, and whole-wheat products.  Plus, while you’re at ShopRite don’t forget to stock up on other flu-care essentials like tissues, cough drops, pain and fever medications, toothbrushes, antibacterial hand wash, and disinfectant wipes to keep surfaces clean.  You can even check out our great selection of magazines or movies to keep you entertained while you’re recouping at home.