As sneezes, sniffles and shivers spread across the kingdom and expats heading home for Christmas are alerted about rampant vicious viruses … medics say you could get both at the same time, writes Camilla Foster.
For example, latest figures reveal that an average of 2,660 flu patients were in hospital in England, including 106 in critical care – up 55 per cent from 1,717 the previous week, when 69 were in critical care.
Colds and flu are both respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. “Colds are primarily caused by viruses, with rhinovirus being the most common culprit,” says Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice. “Whereas, the flu is specifically caused by influenza viruses, primarily types A and B.”
Therefore, it’s possible to have a cold and flu at the same time.
“It is possible to be infected with both a cold and the flu simultaneously, as they are caused by different viruses,” says Dr Asif. “Both have peaks during the cold season and can run your immune system down, making you susceptible to further infections.
“Both the common cold and the flu are highly contagious respiratory illnesses spread through direct contact and respiratory droplets.
“Transmission occurs when virus-laden droplets are expelled during coughing, sneezing, or talking, landing in the mouths or noses of nearby individuals. In poorly ventilated situations, these droplets can travel longer distances.
“Infection can also occur by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.”
What are the main symptoms of a common cold and flu? What are the key difference to look out for?
“A common cold usually causes a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a sore throat, mild cough and mild fatigue,” explained Dr Claire Agathou.
“Meanwhile, flu typically causes a sudden onset of fever, severe tiredness and weakness, muscle and joint aches, a headache, a dry cough, chills (feeling shivery and sweats), a loss of appetite and sometimes diarrhoea.
“The key difference is that flu tends to come on suddenly and much more severely, whereas cold symptoms are milder and develop more gradually.
“While colds are usually mild and self-limiting, both colds and flu can lead to complications such as sinusitis, ear infections, chest infections, and worsening of underlying health conditions.
“Flu can cause pneumonia, hospital admission, and serious illness in vulnerable groups. However, even those who are normally well can become very unwell so it’s important to contact your GP promptly to discuss your symptoms if you feel unwell or are concerned about your symptoms.”
Is flu treated and managed in a different way to a common cold? “Both are mainly managed with rest, fluids and symptom relief such as paracetamol,” added Dr Agathou. “However, in higher-risk groups, antiviral medication may be prescribed for flu if started early.
“Antibiotics are not effective for either unless there is a secondary bacterial infection. A cold usually settles within seven to 10 days, but flu recovery often takes one to two weeks, with fatigue sometimes lasting longer.”
The single most effective protection against flu is the annual flu vaccine, particularly for vulnerable groups, but other preventive steps for both flu and a common cold include regular handwashing and staying home when unwell.
It is also recommended that you avoid touching the face, covering any coughs and sneezes and making sure indoor spaces are well ventilated.
Hopefully, you will not be sat next to a spluttering passenger on your flight back home to Bahrain.
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