ColumbiaCare

As we know, there is not a cure for the flu, but there are treatments to help decrease symptoms as well as prescriptions to help treat the virus as soon as it hits.

Pharmacist Bill Morrissey at Kilgore’s Pharmacy in Columbia has not filled many prescriptions for the flu this year, but says the season is just coming. In past years Morrissey has mostly filled prescriptions for Tamiflu, which is given to children and adults one year and older.

“The standard adult treatment cost is 85 dollars without insurance,” Morrissey said. “Tamiflu is available in pill and liquid form.”

According to the Tamiflu website the dosage varies based on flu prevention or flu treatment. If prescribed for flu prevention, the dosage is one dose, once daily, for 10 days. For flu treatment, the dosage is one dose, twice daily, for five days.

“Time is of the essence,” Morrissey said.

Tamiflu must be taken within 24 to 48 hours of the first symptom appearance according to the Tamiflu website.

For other treatment to help break the fever or numb body aches and pains, Morrissey suggests Tylenol and Ibuprofen to help you feel better.