Reducing fevers raises spread of flu: study

Taking over-the-counter medication to reduce a fever might help a person to feel better, but may also be increasing the spread of the virus, according to a new Canadian study. Higher body temperatures help to kill viral and bacterial infections and prevent bacteria and viruses from replicating. But people are increasingly taking medications that contain ingredients including ibuprofen, acetaminophen and acetylsalicylic acid to suppress fevers and other flu symptoms. According to the study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society, an individual whose fever has been reduced is also likely to feel better and is therefore more likely to interact with others, and spread the pathogen.