A new medically-related groaner by Lowrie Beacham. I hope it is not too autobiographical. On the other hand, it’s an ill ill that blows nose good.

During the holidays, I came down with the flu, despite having of course had the vaccine. I got that version the vaccine didn’t cover. It was rough–the quality of mercy is not in that strain. Worst was the congestion; felt like no way I could clear my throat, try as I might. I consulted a doctor friend (that way I didn’t have to pay for bad advice), who said the sole remedy in his experience was those awful tasting zinc lozenges. I had tried them before, and protested. The MDiety provided no sympathy, just an ultimatum: “Zinc or phlegm.”