Overview of Colds
There are more than 200 germs (microorganisms) where you can catch a cold from. Cold germs are very sociable. They prefer to hang where there are crowds of people. If somebody coughs or sneezes, the germs are transmitted and look for somebody else to land on. Never cough or sneeze in the open air – always use a tissue.
DO
- Rinse your hands regularly.
- Sneeze or cough using a tissue.
- Dispose tissues by throwing it in a bin or flushing down the toilet.
- If you feel tired, go rest.
- Consume lots of juice or water.
- If your throat feels sore, suck on some sweets for your throat.
- Rest if you feel ill.
DON’T
- Use you sleeve to wipe your nose. Make use of a tissue.
- Store tissues in your pocket. Throw them away.
- Have any visitors for a while.
- Go to bed too late (colds are worse at night).
- Play any sports for a while (it’s actually hard to move around with a runny nose).
- Go kiss anyone on the mouth!
- Cough or sneeze over other individuals.
When to Visit Your GP
- You have an ache in your ears, face, or head.
- You feel cold then hot.
- A cough that doesn’t fade away.
- Your throat appears inflamed and sore.
What’s Is Flu (Also Known as Influenza)
There are various kinds of ‘flu’. As soon as our bodies fight one type of flu virus, a new virus attacks the body again! A virus attempts to attack our cells where it will try to spread more germs.
If your body is fairly fit it will counteract the virus, but for children, older people and anybody who is already ill, their bodies might not be resilient enough and they could need the assistance of the GP.
How Is Flu Transmitted
It is transmitted the same way a cold is. How do you know its flu then and not a cold?
- It starts fairly fast.
- You might feel hot, then all of a sudden cold and shivering.
- Your body pains.
- You feel awful and just want to sleep.
- Your nose is not generally running.
Combating The Flu
These are the most vital steps you can take to combat the flu.
- Get lots of rest.
- Consume lots of liquids such as juice or water.
- Consume soft foods especially if your throat is swollen (this is a great reason to eat lots of ice-cream).