Cold Cough & Flu

The common cold and flu are equally contagious lung illnesses. However, they have different viral causes. Different viruses like seasonal coronaviruses, parainfluenza, and rhinoviruses can cause a cold. While flu on the other hand, is only caused by one type of virus, the influenza virus. Therefore, health providers usually offer flu vaccination services to lower the cases of influenza infections.

How can you tell if you have the flu or a cold?

Since both respiratory illnesses have similar symptoms, it can be challenging to tell them apart. Generally, the common cold is much milder than the flu. However, if you have the flu, you will experience similar symptoms but in a more extreme condition. These symptoms include chills, fever, body aches, sore throat, and stuffy nose. Usually, the flu can develop into much more severe health problems such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, and other health issues. 

Can you treat the cold or flu at home?

The short answer is yes. Since viruses cause both respiratory illnesses, you just need to wait until it finishes its course in your body, about 1 to 2 weeks. Then, your doctor or pharmacist can recommend medications to treat symptoms and alleviate their severity. Usually, your pharmacist or health provider offers flu vaccination services and may even suggest that you get vaccinated.

Decongestants and nasal sprays can help relieve a clogged nose. You can also take tablets with painkillers and decongestants to lower your temperature, relieve aches, and help you breathe better.

How to avoid the cold and flu?

You can stop or avoid catching a cold or the flu by:

· washing your hands often with soap and water

· covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing, then disposing of the tissue properly

· avoid touching your eyes or nose at all times, regardless if you got in contact with the virus or not

· never share towels and personal items like cups or spoons with someone who has a cold or flu

· eat more fruits and vegetables high in vitamin c and zinc to strengthen your immunity

· exercise regularly

One of the best ways to avoid the flu is by getting a flu vaccine. If you are looking for flu vaccine services, the Pearl Chemist Group offers this service in the following areas:

· Flu Vaccination Service in Tooting

· Flu Vaccination Service in London

· Flu Vaccination Service in Earlsfield

· Flu Vaccination Service in Epsom

· Flu Vaccination Service in Streatham

· Flu Vaccination Service in Wimbledon

Prevention is always better than cure. With the current inflation, you want to be healthy and be able to do what you need to do. Get in touch with an expert at Pearl Chemist Group for your vaccination needs.