With coughs and colds 60% Italians isolate themselves at home, reference pharmacists

The pandemic changed the reactions and attitudes of citizens in the event of flu symptoms such as coughs and colds. In Italy, more than two in five people (41%) said they feel more reluctant to show symptoms of coughs and colds when in public and 60% automatically isolate themselves at home. 37% of consumers cannot confidently distinguish cough and cold symptoms from other viruses. And in this scenario, pharmacists have the great opportunity to fill the gaps and insecurities of consumers. This is what emerges from a new European research commissioned by Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health Emea on the occasion of World Pharmacists Day, which is celebrated on 25 September. The results of the survey, conducted on 6,083 participants (over 18) from all over Europe show that, now more than ever, citizens are looking for reassurance, advice and support on managing the most common flu symptoms. Of the Italian sample, made up of 1,021 respondents, when coughs and colds occur 23% are more concerned about asking pharmacists for advice on therapeutic solutions suitable for treating cough and cold symptoms, while 3 out of 5 isolate themselves at home. Among the respondents who hesitate to turn to pharmacists for advice on cough and cold symptoms, there is a 41% who say they expect an official directive from the Ministry of Health that informs citizens that they can rely on local pharmacists for the evaluation of flu symptoms of coughs and colds. “The role of pharmacists cannot be underestimated, especially after the events of the last 18 months and the continuing uncertainties that unfortunately emerge daily,” said Duarte Dias, president and CEO of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health Italy. “The results clearly indicate a lack of consumer confidence in correctly understanding flu symptoms and the most effective treatments on their own. This is why we invest in continuous support to pharmacists, key figures to help citizens in assessing symptoms and providing advice and appropriate care at the right time “, he adds. With the relaxation of restrictions throughout Italy, it emerged that 20% of Italian families, during the summer period, were hit by winter viruses with extreme delay. A worrying situation that presumes a potential increase in flu states among citizens, especially with the return to school, work and the approach of the Italian autumn and winter season. The survey indicates the significant role that pharmacists can play in supporting consumers in this uncertain scenario. Compared to 18 months ago, it emerges that 28% of respondents are likely to prioritize the flu vaccine before next winter, and 40% will always wear a face mask in public, despite the relaxation of some restrictions outdoors, regardless of whether have flu symptoms or not. Following the continuing uncertainty and delayed spread of off-season winter viruses, Johnson & Johnson Consumer Health recognizes the daily challenge that pharmacists face and the difficulties they must prepare to manage this fall and winter. With a long track record of supporting 1.2 billion patients through cutting-edge discoveries, market-leading brands and educational resources, the company is committed to continually innovate and leverage its knowledge to make care accessible to all, thus also helping public health systems, extremely overloaded by the global pandemic And”.