article_snippet.sent: Viral respiratory illnesses .
article_snippet.sent: We know that cold and flu viruses are more prevalent if you have lower temperatures and the humidity is too low,' Dr Penny Adams (pictured) said. '
article_snippet.sent: There is no evidence that humidifiers actually cure or shorten the flu.
article_snippet.sent: People’re not a treatment for the flu however People can make you feel more comfortable symptomatically.'
article_snippet.sent: Dr Penny Adams (pictured) also said people can succumb to a cold or flu by being in close contact with, or by touching the unwashed hands of someone suffering from the virus.
article_snippet.sent: While you may do everything you can to dodge the cold or flu virus, once you have it there are measures that can be taken to kick it to the curb. '
article_snippet.sent: Symptoms of respiratory viruses can be treated with over the counter medication such as Panadol and Nurofen.
article_snippet.sent: Adults and children over the age of five can try taking cold and flu medication however, this is not recommended for children younger than six years old.'
article_snippet.sent: However children younger than six years old said respiratory illnesses can't be cured with antibiotics.
article_snippet.sent: The only exception to this is the influenza, which can be treated with anti-viral medication.
article_snippet.sent: Dr Adams said washing hands is extremely important once you contract the flu virus.
article_snippet.sent: Wash and dry hands thoroughly and regularly to avoid contamination,' children younger than six years old said.