What causes colds and flu?

Colds and flu are caused by viruses that infect the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat, ears and sinuses). The peak season for catching a cold is the winter months. But did you know that colds aren’t directly triggered by the cold weather? For example, your central heating could dry out the moist mucosa in your nose, and it’s this mucosa that acts as an important defence against invading viruses.

The flu is caused by the influenza virus and thrives mostly during November to February.

What’s the difference between colds and flu?

A cold normally develops gradually and causes a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, cough, mild fever and tiredness. It usually lasts two to four days.

The flu, however, usually affects the whole body. Symptoms include: a high fever (usually 39°C or above), chills, headaches, intense muscle pains, exhaustion, loss of appetite, coughing, and sometimes a blocked nose and sore throat. It can last a week or more.

Popular ways to treat colds and flu

Most colds don’t last long. You can treat the symptoms of a cold at home with painkillers (antibiotics are of no use against a cold). ibuprofen – the common active ingredient in all Nurofen painkillers – has been proven to help lower a temperature. Other ways you can relieve cold and flu symptoms include:

• Using decongestant rubs, saline vaporisers or inhalers
• Drinking hot drinks, like honey and lemon
• Keeping warm
• Resting

For more information, contact NHS Direct.

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