Is it the Flu or a Cold?

The flu and the common cold have many similar symptoms. Both can be contracted through the air. This often happens when someone with the flu or a cold sneezes or coughs. Bacteria can also be left on surfaces, which others can come in contact with and then contract.

Flu symptoms include a high fever of 100^oF or feels feverish, a cough, a sore throat, a runny/stuffy nose, headaches, body aches, chills, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea.

Common cold symptoms include clear, watery nasal drainage, sneezing, fatigue, and nasal congestion. Other common cold symptoms are cough, decreased appetite, headache, muscle aches, postnasal drip, or sore throat. The common cold can also include a low fever in adults and a higher fever in children.

If you begin experiencing flu-like symptoms you should see your doctor sooner rather than later.  Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following:

•       Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
•       Purple or blue discoloration of the lips
•       Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
•       Sudden dizziness
•       Confusion
•       Severe or persistent vomiting
•       Seizures
•       Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough

Remember, prevention is the best medicine. Breathing clean air and keeping surfaces free of bacteria can help keep your family healthy and happy.