If you see a treatment or cure for influenza or COVID that looks too good to be true, it probably is.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns families about fake or unapproved products that claim to protect people from catching
influenza,
COVID or other viruses. These products could be unsafe. They include herbal teas, dietary supplements, mouthwashes, essential oils, tinctures, colloidal silver and air filters. The FDA also raises concerns about unproven COVID treatments.
Wording to watch for
The FDA has not approved any over-the-counter medications or products that can prevent or cure influenza or COVID. These phrases often are on fake products:
reduces the severity and length of illness
boosts your immunity
is a safe and effective alternative to the vaccine
treats a wide range of diseases
contains secret ingredients or
includes personal testimonials
COVID-19 test kits
The FDA approves at-home tests. Other ways to be tested for COVID are to contact your health care provider or visit a testing site.
Medications
Be cautious about using online pharmacies that offer antiviral prescription medication at low prices without a doctor's prescription. These pharmacies usually are not in the United States. The medications may have harmful ingredients. If you use an online pharmacy, make sure it is
approved.
There has been interest in some medicines meant for other conditions, or even animals, against COVID. Remember that using any medication not approved or authorized by the FDA, unless as part of a clinical trial, can cause serious harm. For example, the FDA and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that people should not take the drug
ivermectin, used in products meant to treat or prevent parasites. Multiple people who took ivermectin meant for horses and cattle have had to be hospitalized.
Check with your pediatrician
If you have questions about your child's symptoms,
call your pediatrician. The doctor can decide the best way to care for your child. Watch for common symptoms of respiratory illness, including fever/chills, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, extreme tiredness, muscle or body aches, headache, stuffy or runny nose, vomiting and diarrhea.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all children ages 6 months and older get a flu vaccine. Children 8 years old and younger need two doses given at least four weeks apart when getting vaccinated for the first time. The updated COVID vaccine is recommended for children and teens age 6 months and older.
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