Covid-19

The OTC card is a prepaid debit card with some Medicare Advantage plans. The card is preloaded monthly or quarterly with money that can be used to purchase plan-approved OTC items at in-network locations. Generally, the program will provide a prepaid debit card that can be used at in-network retailers; however, some plans offer a catalog instead. This catalog allows for browsing and then placing orders online or over the phone to be shipped.

VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS TO BOOST YOUR IMMUNITIES DURING COVID-19

Because COVID-19 comes with cold and flu-like symptoms, Vitamins B, C, and D, as well as zinc, may help boost your immune system and fight the illness in the same way they can help you get over a cold or flu.

Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 is in charge of keeping the immune system strong, making new red blood cells, and transporting oxygen throughout the body. Vitamin B6 is responsible for producing T cells and white blood cells, which regulate immune responses. Foods rich in vitamin B are tuna, chicken, salmon, leafy greens, and chickpeas.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C contributes to your immune defense system by supporting multiple cellular functions of your body’s adaptive immune systems. Being an antioxidant, it can also fight free radicals in the body, thereby decreasing inflammation and boosting immunity.

Vitamin D: Works with the immune system to fight infections and produce antibodies. You can get D2 with D3 for more efficiency at raising Vitamin D levels in the body. You can find supplements like tablets and sublingual drops or spray, which are an excellent choice for people suffering from malabsorption.

Zinc: According to the National Institute of Health (NIH, 2022), “popping a zinc throat lozenge, or taking an over-the-counter cold remedy with zinc in it (as a syrup or tablet) can help produce and activate T-cells (t-lymphocytes), which trigger the body to respond to infections.”

Garlic: Eating garlic boosts the T-cells in your bloodstream, which fights viruses.

Echinacea: Echinacea has been used to treat cold symptoms upon first signs of illness. Echinacea plants are loaded with antioxidants which help defend your cells against diseases.

Licorice root: relieves sore throat and cough and may ease symptoms of COVID-19.

FEVER REDUCERS AND PAIN RELIEVERS

Acetaminophen (Tylenol), naproxen (Aleve), or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce your fever. (Note** If you don’t have a health problem that prevents you from using them).

USING A MENTHOLATED CHEST RUB

Vicks Vaporub: For managing cough and shortness of breath. Over-the-counter Vicks medications may help to alleviate symptoms.

OTC MEDICATIONS FOR STOMACH UPSET

Antacids: Pepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) coats the esophagus, acts as a barrier to reflux, and alleviates pain and other symptoms. Pepcid and Prilosec OTC for relief of heartburn.

MASKS ACCORDING TO THE CDC

Gaps can be caused by selecting the wrong size or type of mask or when a mask is worn with facial hair. When choosing a mask, look at how well it fits. Make sure it fits snugly over your nose, mouth, and chin.