Flu ( Influenza)

Flu (Influenza) is a viral infection with sudden fever / chills, headache, body pain, muscle and joints pain, tiredness, vomiting sensation and cough.

It is not the same as the regular cough and cold (common cold) but it is similar and more severe.

Transmitted by coughing and sneezing. Shopping malls / large gatherings contribute to the spread.

Severe illness with complications can occur in children < 5 years, adults > 65 years, pregnancy, people with diabetes, heart, lung, kidney problems.

On recovery, severe tiredness could persist for a few weeks.

Vaccines available are 1) Injection 2) Nasal spray

Cold and Cough

Common Cold is common among children aged 6 months to 5 years.

It is a viral infection which heals on its own.

There is no “cure”. There is no “vaccine.

The “Flu vaccine” does not prevent “recurrent cold and cough.

“Cold medications” are not recommended. Antibiotics should be avoided. Though the pharmacies are stocked full of various medications, none is effective. Giving these medications could lead to side effects.

A paediatrician could confirm a common cold and rule out pneumonia, ear infection or allergy. Then one could safely wait and let the “Cold” run its course.