An NHS doctor has shared his personal battle with a bug that’s been knocking down celebrities, including Kirstie Allsopp and Jeremy Vine. Dr Max Pemberton, an NHS psychiatrist, found himself “laid low” by the seasonal illness, which has also affected several of his colleagues.
In a piece for the Daily Mail, he divulged his top tips for overcoming the ailment.
Dr Max advised: “Despite all the advances of the past few decades, a cure remains elusive. So what works when you have one of these infections?
“I recommend rest, lots of fluids, paracetamol, Difflam spray to help sore throats and Lotil for chapped skin. Also, some good old black and white films while tucked up on the sofa.”
Meanwhile, TV star Kirstie Allsopp has been battling what she describes as a severe “chest infection/lurgy” which has left her bedridden for an unusual length of time.
The 53-year-old presenter shared her ordeal on social media, stating: “Day 5 in bed, which is unheard of for me, but it does mean I am home alone watching #StrictlyComeDancing Final, and it is such a brilliant, brilliant, brilliant show. So much inspiration and warmth,” reports Surrey Live.
Kirstie revealed that battling through the illness has been tough, explaining she’s an “all-weather gal” and “nothing takes me down”. She disclosed that managing to open and close her curtains twice a day and brush her teeth has become an ordeal due to the bug’s severity.
She also shared: “Only time I was ever this ill was when I had very severe morning sickness with my youngest.”
The television star noted that the virus “seems to have hit the celeb circuit particularly hard,” stating she is “desperately” in need of finding someone well-known to take over her role at a festive carol concert.
During her health battle, Kirstie was met with an outpouring of fan support. A sympathetic follower commented: “Wow, I thought I was bad. I took to bed for one day after realising I was too sick to crack on. Still not 100% but not as bad. Be well soonest.”
For those feeling under the weather, the NHS advises plenty of rest, hydration including water and hot lemon with honey, keeping the head elevated during sleep, and taking painkillers to reduce temperatures. Furthermore, the NHS recommends pregnant individuals, people over 65, anyone experiencing worsening symptoms, or those who’ve had a cough persisting more than three weeks to consult their doctor.