The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that is caused by the influenza virus. It can infect the nose, throat, and even lungs and symptoms can be mild to severe. The best way to prevent the flu is to take the influenza mrna vaccine each year. Luckily, there are many treatments for the flu from traditional home treatments to medication such as the following:

1. Taking antiviral medications

The most common antiviral medications that are used to treat the flu are oseltamivir phosphate, zanamivir, peramivir, and baloxavir marboxil. These prescription medications can lessen any fever you may have and reduce flu symptoms. They can even shorten the amount of time you are sick by about one day. They work by blocking receptors so the influenza virus can’t bind to and enter healthy cells and by boosting the immune system.

2. Staying hydrated

Another proven treatment for those with the flu, is staying hydrated. The flu often comes with a fever which can cause dehydration. The body loses lots of fluids when it is fighting off the flu, so by drinking enough water and fluids you can help fight off the flu and stay healthy.

3. Eating warm soup

There are many reasons why soup is known as one of the best foods to eat to fight off the flu.The sodium it contains helps ease a sore throat or any throat pain (the same way salt water does). The heat from the soup can help clear the nasal passages and relieve sinus congestion, pressure, and pain. Finally, depending on the ingredients, the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in the soup can nourish the body and speed up the recovery process.

4. Try saline nasal spray

Another symptom of the flu is a runny or congested nose. A saline nasal spray can help as they are made of a mixture of water and salt and can lubricate and flush out nasal passages and relieve nasal dryness, nosebleeds, or congestion. Since a saline spray can reduce any mucus secretions in the sinuses and wash away germs it is a great option to clean out your nose if you have the flu.

5. Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Acetaminophen (known as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (known as Advil) are often recommended by doctors to patients who have the flu. They can help lessen symptoms such as fevers, aches, pains, and headaches. They are easily available over the counter and offer quick relief for anyone with the flu.