Cold Vs Influenza

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Cold and Flu
Woke up coughing and sneezing with that achy, feverish can’t move a muscle feeling? How do you know whether you have cold symptoms or the flu? Is there even a difference between a cold and the flu (influenza)? Or is it maybe allergies?
What is respiratory tract infection?
Respiratory tract infections are any infection of the sinuses, throat, airways or lungs and can last up to 30 days. The common cold is the most widespread respiratory tract infection, which include ear infections, bronchitis and pneumonia.
What is the difference between a cold and the flu (influenza)?
Although the flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses, they are caused by different viruses with similar symptoms. It can be difficult to tell …show more content…
Because colds can spread easy, the best prevention is avoidance. Sharing goes both ways though, so when you’re sick with a cold, stay home.
AVOID AND DON’T SHARE:
• Stay away from anyone who is sick
• Don’t share utensils or any other personal items, such as a toothbrush or towel
PRACTICE GOOD HYGIENE:
• Wash your hands often with hot water and soap
• Use an alcohol based hand sanitizer
• Keep your hands away from your nose, eyes and mouth
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
What is the seasonal flu (influenza)?
Influenza, known as the flu, is another upper respiratory illness. Unlike the cold, which you can get any time of the year, the flu is generally seasonal. Flu season runs from fall to spring, peaking during the winter months and you can catch the flu in the same way you’d pick up a …show more content…
Influenza is spread when someone who’s sick sneezes or coughs, spreading the virus or by coming in contact with an infected surface, such as door handles etc. You are contagious starting from 1 day before you get sick and up to 5 – 7 days after you show symptoms.
Flu causes?
The seasonal flu is caused by the influenza A,B and C viruses. Influenza A and B is the most common viruses. Active strains of influenza virus vary every year and that is why a new flu vaccine developed each year.
Unlike the common cold, the flu can develop into a more serious condition, such as pneumonia. Pneumonia is especially true for the following people:
• People with health conditions that weaken their immune system
• People with chronic cardiovascular or lung disorders
• People with diabetes or chronic liver disease or kidney disease
• Smokers
• Older adults
• Pregnant women
• And those with a suppressed immune system due to cancer chemotherapy or conditions such as leukemia, multiple myeloma or HIV
How to treat the flu?
Your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs which can shorten the duration of the flue and prevent complication such pneumonia. You need to take them within the first 48 hours of getting sick for them to
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