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Colds & Flu

What is a Cold?

In common language, “cold” typically refers to a viral infection affecting the upper respiratory tract.

What are the Symptoms of a cold?

Symptoms of a cold often include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, and sometimes fever.

What Causes a cold?

Colds are usually caused by rhinoviruses, though other viruses such as coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can also be responsible.

Colds are highly contagious and spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.

How Do You Treat a cold?

Although colds are generally mild and resolve on their own within a week or two, they can cause discomfort and disruption to daily activities. Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms (such as pain relievers, decongestants, or cough suppressants), and sometimes antiviral medications if prescribed by a healthcare professional.

What is a Flu?

The flu, short for influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can lead to mild to severe illness, and in some cases, it can be life-threatening. The flu typically spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and it can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces.

What are Symptoms of the Flu?

Symptoms of the flu can include:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue

Some people may also experience vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults

The flu can vary in severity from mild to severe, and it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with certain underlying health conditions.

How Can I Prevent Getting the Flu?

Prevention measures for the flu include annual vaccination, frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and staying home when sick to prevent spreading the virus to others, staying healthy, and taking vitamins as needed.

How Do You Treat the flu?

Treatment for the flu typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms such as fever, pain, and congestion. In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed by a healthcare professional to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, especially for individuals at high risk of complications.