Flu
The common cold and flu (influenza) are very common infections of the upper respiratory tract.
Colds and flu are caused by viruses. The infections are contagious, passed on by tiny droplets and hand contact.
There are hundreds of different types of virus that can cause a cold, which explains why children get repeated colds.
Flu is caused by the influenza virus. There are three major types: A (often the cause of flu epidemics), B and C. The flu virus is constantly changing its structure, so new strains appear each year. We don't have immunity to the new strains, which is why we can catch flu repeatedly.
Anyone can catch a cold or flu. The peak season for colds is the colder winter months, not only because of the weather but because central heating dries out the normally moist nasal mucosa - an important defence against invading viruses. However, you can catch a cold at any time of the year. Flu rarely occurs outside November to February.
Symptoms
A cold causes a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, mild fever and tiredness, lasting two to four days.
Flu is more severe with a high fever (usually 39°C or above), chills, headache, intense muscle pains, exhaustion, loss of appetite, cough and sometimes a blocked nose and sore throat. It may last a week or more.
Diagnosis and treatment
Most colds don't last long and need no specific treatment other than pain-relieving syrup and simple measures such as decongestant rubs or vaporisers. Antibiotics will not help. Zinc and vitamin C supplements may help to get rid of a cold faster.
Children with flu can be given similar treatments, with lots of rest, sponging with tepid water to bring down a fever and plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.
