MILWAUKEE — Pharmacists in Milwaukee are busy filling prescriptions for sicknesses ahead of the holiday season.
Winter is know as cold and flu season. With the holidays around the corner, many may be trying to find ways to stay healthy before gatherings with family and friends.
Dr. Hashim Zaibak is the founder of Hayat Pharmacy and said this time of year is a busy time at work.
“We have seen an increase in the number of viral infections in the community,” Dr. Zaibak said. “We have more prescriptions for viral infections, medications and also for antibiotics.”
He said he’s seen a recent increase in patients with the flu A & B, Strep, and COVID-19.
“We have seen an increase in the number of prescriptions for Paxlovid in that last 10 days,” Zaibak said.
With an increase in patients coming down with sicknesses, Zaibak said the medications used to treat them are in high demand. He said prescriptions like Tamiflu are on backorder.
For people who are feeling healthy and want to stay that way, Dr. Tyler Andrysczky, a pharmacist at Hayat said there are over the counter vitamins and supplements that can help boost the immune system.
“There are a lot of over the counter options just to help increase your immense system during the winter season,” Dr. Andrysczyk said.
He said vitamins like zinc, vitamin D, elderberry, ginseng and magnesium are good options to take to help prevent sickness and boost your immune system.
“People are reaching for stuff that can really help get them through the flu season for sure,” he said.
This time of year, pharmacists said using preventative measures to help maintain a healthy immune system is important. They also urge people to test for common illnesses if they are feeling sick to avoid spreading sickness with those who are immune-compromised.