For this session, use the preceding article on cough, colds and flu, as well as other sources of information, such as articles, websites and OTC medicines guides or manufacturer’s literature, to strengthen your knowledge of these seasonal ailments. This will give you more insight and information to pass on to your customers.

In order to make this information useful and relevant to your work, consider the following:

• What are the differences in symptoms between a cold and flu?
• What are the first-line treatments for symptoms of coughs, colds and flu?
• What self care tips can you offer people who are suffering from congestion and a runny nose? Can you think of any that are not mentioned in the article?
• Identify treatments that are safe to use in pregnancy and during breastfeeding
• What are the benefits of getting a flu vaccination in a pharmacy?
• How would you explain to a customer why antibiotics should not be used for a cold?
• What symptoms indicate something more than just a cold and require referral to the pharmacist?