Tips for Battling the Cold and Flu Season from London Drugs Pharmacists

RICHMOND, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwire - Oct. 16, 2012) - Cold and flu season usually begins to peak around the start to midpoint of November. Typically viruses are spread through contact with an infected individual whether it be shaking hands, using the same keyboard or even walking in a crowded environment where air borne viruses can be spread.

London Drugs Pharmacists recommend the following tips to reduce the chances of catching a virus:

- Avoid touching your face and wash hands frequently, especially before eating. Cold and flu viruses are easily picked up by hands and passed to your nose and mouth.

- Avoid shaking hands or being in crowded indoor areas.

- Keep a liquid/gel cleansing antibacterial agent handy for when you are not able to wash your hands with soap and water. Cleanse you hands after taking public transit, touching elevator buttons or even doorknobs those looking to avert the flu can use this antibacterial product.

- Sanitize all your makeup and beauty tools.

- Protect yourself with a flu vaccination. Maximum protection against the flu virus develops from approximately two weeks after the vaccination is given and can last up to a year. It is recommended to get a flu shot annually as the strains of virus in each year's vaccine changes.

People who should consider a flu vaccination are seniors, their associated caregivers and individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart conditions. In Alberta and British Columbia, London Drugs Certified Injection Pharmacists can administer flu vaccinations and injectable medications and vaccines such as Hepatitis A/B and Tetanus. It is recommended to book an appointment with a pharmacist. London Drugs starts Flu Vaccination Clinics across Alberta and British Columbia Monday, October 15, 2012.

WHAT: London Drugs Flu Vaccination Clinics

WHEN & WHERE: All Clinics locations and dates can be found here.

COST: $18, ask us if you qualify for a free flu shot in British Columbia. Alberta residents with a personal health number receive free shots.

About London Drugs

Founded in 1945, B.C.-based London Drugs has 75 stores in more than 35 major markets throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba including its online store www.londondrugs.com. London Drugs offers consumers a range of products from digital cameras and cosmetics to computers and televisions. Renowned for its creative approach to retailing, the company employs more than 7,500 people with pharmacy and health care services being the heart of its business. Committed to innovation and superior customer service, London Drugs has established itself as a reputable and caring company and continues to position itself for future growth and development.