What is Cold and Flu?
The common cold and influenza (flu) are two similar contagious upper respiratory illnesses. Both are caused by common viruses circulating within the population. However, influenza is caused only by influenza viruses, while many viruses can cause the common cold. The most common viruses that cause the common cold are rhinoviruses.
Cold and flu viruses spread through droplets in the air that are released when someone sick coughs, sneezes, or talks. Those droplets can enter your body through your mouth, eyes, or nose. The viruses can also spread by hand-to-hand contact or by touching surfaces that have been contaminated, such as toys, telephones, or other household objects.
Cold and Flu Symptoms
- Runny Nose
- Headache
- Sneezing
- Body aches
- Sore Throat and Cough
- Fever
- Feelings on fatigue
- Chills
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Get Your Annual Flu Shot
One of the best ways to protect yourself against flu is to get your annual flu vaccination.
If you are immunocompromised, elderly or otherwise at risk of developing complications from flu, it is highly recommended that you get your annual flu shot. This is also true if you are in regular, close contact with someone at risk of developing flu complications.
Generally available in the early fall or winter in Ontario, your family physician’s office or local pharmacist can easily administer the vaccination, often with little to no side effects.
Treatment Options
While there is no magic cure for cold or flu, there are plenty of ways to alleviate symptoms while your body naturally fights off the virus:
- Stay hydrated
- Sleep as much as possible
- Eat healthy, nutritious food
- Take over-the-counter medications for symptom relief if you’re able. (Always check with your primary care provider about any OTC medications you take. If you are on prescription medications, they may be contraindications.)
- Stay home if you can, to avoid infecting those around you
- Ask your doctor about antiviral drugs if you are at risk of developing complications from flu
Healthy habits to protect against cold and flu
The best way to protect yourself and others against catching a common cold or flu is to:
- Avoid close contact with someone who is sick
- Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough
- Wash your hands regularly and thoroughly with soap and water
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Practice good cleaning habits at home, work and school
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