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	As people head back to school or work after Christmas, a new website has been launched to help anyone feeling unwell.</p>
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	The website, undertheweather.ie has been developed by the HSE in partnership with GPs and pharmacists.</p>
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	It aims to guide people on how to deal with a wide range of common conditions like cold, flu, sore throats or tummy bugs.</p>
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	Cork GP, Dr Nuala O&#39;Connor, said: &quot;The easy-to-read content, videos and advice from GPs and pharmacists we developed for undertheweather.ie will guide you on how to treat the condition yourself and how to get better &ndash; and also when you need to ask for expert help.</p>
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	&quot;Sometimes people feel they need to visit a GP for common illnesses, or when a cold or cough last more than a few days.</p>
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	&quot;The site explains how long common viral illness can last, and aims to give you the confidence to get better at home, without unnecessary antibiotics.&quot;</p>
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	Here are some of the facts that the site promotes:</p>
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	* A cough, while irritating, can often last up to three weeks &ndash; many people feel this is a concern but it is quite normal</p>
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	* Influenza is quite a serious illness that can keep you off your feet for a week or two &ndash; but it doesn&rsquo;t respond to antibiotics. We treat the flu with rest, fluids, over the counter medicines. Keep an eye on older people or those with long-term illness, who might experience complications and need to see the doctor</p>
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	* Earaches and sore throats can be very painful, but again, the vast majority don&rsquo;t respond to an antibiotic. We treat them with over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol or ibuprofen, and most resolve by themselves within a few days</p>
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	(Published by the Irish Examiner on the 9th January 2017)</p>
<p>
	<a href="https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/hse-launches-website-to-advise-people-on-fighting-flu-and-other-winter-bugs-771581.html">https://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/ireland/hse-launches-website-to-advise-people-on-fighting-flu-and-other-winter-bugs-771581.html</a></p>
