The flu ("influenza") is a viral infection of the respiratory tract (lungs, throat, nasal passages).
The common cold is often mistaken for influenza; yet they have different origins and symptoms. In addition,
you can protect yourself from the flu with an annual flu shot.
Flu or cold?
The flu and the common cold affect the upper respiratory tract in similar ways. However, both ailments
are rather distinct. To know if you suffer from a cold or the flu, you need to pay special attention to
the symptoms you are experiencing.
| Symptoms |
Flu |
Cold |
| Fever |
Usually. Between 38ºC and 40 ºC.
May last 2 to 5 days. |
Rarely |
| Cough |
Usually. May last 2 weeks. |
Rarely |
| Excessive fatigue |
Usually. May be severe. |
Rarely |
| Body aches and pain |
Usually. May be severe. |
Rarely |
Nasal congestion
and runny nose |
Rarely |
Usually |
| Chest pains |
Usually. May be severe. |
Mild to moderate |
| Headaches |
Usually. May be severe. |
Rarely |
Nausea and
vomiting |
Especially children. |
Rarely |
| Sore throat |
Rarely |
Usually |
| Sneezing |
Rarely |
Usually |
Tiredness and
weakness |
Usually. May last 2 to 3 weeks. |
Mild |
Flu viruses
There are three main types of viruses that can cause the flu.
- Type A: It is the most common strain of the flu. It strikes approximately every three years.
- Type B: This virus causes an epidemic every five years. The infection is usually benign.
- Type C: It affects animals in particular and is always present. It usually strikes between October and March.
Transmission
Influenza, much like the common cold, spreads easily from one person to another through tiny airborne droplets:
when someone with the flu coughs or sneezes, he or she projects millions of virus-laden particles ready to
contaminate people within range.
Remember that those with the flu are contagious before the onset of any symptoms. The incubation
period of the virus ranges from one to four days. Once symptoms appear, flu sufferers are contagious
for approximately six days (ten days for children).
Treating the flu
Here are a few tips to minimize flu symptoms:
- Drink plenty of water;
- Stay home and rest;
- Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to lower fever.
Antibiotics are useless against the flu (because the flu is a virus and antibiotics only kill bacteria).
They can, however, be prescribed for secondary bacterial infections: sinus infections, ear infections, etc.
Preventing the flu
The annual flu shot is generally a very reliable preventive measure. Its composition changes annually based
on the viral strains most likely to develop during that year. In 70 to 90 percent of cases, it is effective
in healthy adults. Yearly vaccination is recommended.
The Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux (MSSS) offers the vaccine
free of charge to persons, such as seniors, who are at a high risk of developing flu-related complications.
Pharmacy services
Questions about the flu? Feel free to talk to your pharmacist. He's standing by to help!
Ask about the annual flu shot available in some Clinique Santé stores.