In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention measures related to colds and flu.
The common cold is primarily caused by rhinoviruses, though other viruses such as coronaviruses and respiratory syncytial viruses (RSV) can also contribute. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, respiratory droplets spread these viruses.
There are several types of influenza viruses, including influenza A and influenza B, which cause the flu. Influenza viruses can undergo frequent genetic changes, leading to the emergence of new strains each flu season, as well as being highly contagious. They spread through respiratory droplets.
Common cold symptoms include runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, sneezing, mild fever, and fatigue. Cold symptoms usually develop gradually and are milder than flu symptoms.
There are a number of symptoms associated with the flu, including fever, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, and nasal congestion. Young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially susceptible to complications like pneumonia caused by the flu.
Clinical symptoms are usually used to diagnose a cold. Laboratory tests are not usually required unless complications arise.
In addition to clinical symptoms, rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) and polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) can confirm influenza infection. As part of these tests, nasal swabs or throat swabs are often used to collect respiratory specimens.
A typical cold treatment involves resting, staying hydrated, taking over-the-counter cold medications (e.g., decongestants, pain relievers, antihistamines), and using saline nasal sprays or drops to relieve nasal congestion.
A number of antiviral medications are available for treating the flu, including oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), and baloxavir (Xofluza). Starting these medications within 48 hours of becoming ill can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms. Symptoms can also be alleviated by supportive care such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers in addition to antiviral medications.
Good hygiene and preventive measures are key to preventing colds and flu:
Hands should be washed frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces in public places.
If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
Stay home if you are ill to prevent spreading the virus to others. Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow to prevent respiratory droplets from spreading.
Vaccinate against the flu annually to reduce the risk of getting the flu and its complications.
As a result, colds and flu are respiratory illnesses caused by viruses that are easily spread. Colds are usually mild and self-limiting, but the flu can have more severe symptoms. For preventing the spread of cold and flu viruses and maintaining overall health during the cold and flu season, it is essential to practice good hygiene, get vaccinated against the flu, and stay home when sick.
