Thursday, November 20, 2008

Public Service Announcement

The cold & flu season is upon us and it's nothing to sneeze at. 90 years ago, an influenza epidemic swept the world killing 50 million people.  Here are some tips to help you cope with this annual annoyance.

The Lady Macbeth procedure: Wash your hands often to the point of obsession. "Out damn'd spot. Out, I say!"Rather than milady's imagined blood stains, you're targeting germs. Use soap, any type. The antibacterial soap thing is an advertising ploy. However, you must work the lather for at least 1 minute. Count 1-Mississippi, etc. or sing Happy Birthday twice. The latter produces interesting looks in a public restroom. When not within reach of a sink, a small container of hand-sanitizer helps. Also, bring a bottle of 99% Isopropyl alcohol to the workplace and regularly wipe down the phone, computer keyboard and other surfaces. Be sure it's 99%. There is a 70% version, aka rubbing alcohol, that is not strong enough to kill germs.

Jewish Penicillin: Scientists now acknowledge this age-old cure as a viable option. When cooked, chicken releases an amino acid that acts like acetylcyseine, a drug used for colds and bronchitis. The warm broth clears the nasal passages. The added garlic and pepper keep the congestion flowing. 

Drink plenty of fluids, take vitamin C and get plenty of sleep. You should limit smoking and alcohol consumption to aid your immune system. However, a little medicinal toddy never hurts. My family recipe is 2 parts Irish Whisky, 1 part boiling water, 2 tbsp. honey, a cinnamon stick. Sip this wrapped in a comforter or thick sweater. Repeat as needed. Gin is also a helpful anodyne. The botanicals blended with the alcohol can be very therapeutic. But in moderation - as ever - BB

I like to have a martini, two at the very most. Three I'm under the table, four I'm under the host." - Dorothy Parker

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