Flu Information
Now is the season for colds and flu. So how do you know which is which? When should you bother a doctor? What can you take to treat the symptoms? How can you avoid getting colds?
For most people, colds and flu are not life-threatening but an inconvenience. How do you tell the difference between flu and the common cold? Influenza is worse than an ordinary cold. It usually starts suddenly with a high fever of 39-40ºC which lasts 3-4 days. Headaches, chills and a dry cough are common as are general muscle aches and pains which can be severe. A stuffy nose, sneezing and a sore throat can also be present. The fever tends to decrease after the second day when nasal congestion and a sore throat become more noticeable. Tiredness can last 2-3 weeks. On the other hand, cold symptoms are limited to the upper respiratory tract with runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation. The symptoms usually occur gradually and do not cause a fever or body aches.
Both colds and flu are caused by viruses. Antibiotics, which work on bacteria, are therefore of no use. If the symptoms are severe, then it is permissible to take something like paracetamol to reduce the temperature (if it is above 38°C) or a decongestant (taking care that it does not make you drowsy). You do not need to see a doctor. However, if you develop severe earache, pain on pressure over your sinuses (above or below the eyes) or cough up green phlegm, then you may need antibiotics and only a doctor can prescribe these. If possible, you should avoid flying with a cold as this may cause severe ear pain.
Cold and flu viruses are spread by droplets which survive on surfaces for hours. To avoid spreading the germs, cough into a paper handkerchief and then discard it. To avoid catching colds or flu, do not touch your face or mouth and wash your hands regularly with soap and hot water especially after exposure to public places. Since exposure to cold and hunger can lower your defences, you have less chance of catching any virus if you eat healthily, wrap up warm and and take a moderate amount of exercise. Vitamin supplements should not be necessary.
The epidemic flu which happens every year can be prevented in many cases by vaccination. Because the virus changes every year, the vaccination also changes. On the other hand, pandemic flu, such as happened at the end of the First World War, can be much more serious. The pandemic of 1918-19 killed more than both world wars put together. Corporate Health Ltd can help employers with contingency planning for pandemic flu and can also prescribe anti-viral medication for staff members.