This year, the flu season is turning out to be one of the deadliest, killing at least 37 children and 90 adults in the United States from influenza symptoms.
Common Cold Symptoms
Since the common cold and flu share similar symptoms, many people find it difficult to tell the difference between the various symptoms. People with the common cold get a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, and congestion.
Symptoms start off pretty mild but improve in about a week. Sometimes, symptoms that start off as a common cold can develop into a sinus infection, which needs antibiotics to improve symptoms.
Influenza (Flu) Symptoms
Flu symptoms are more severe than common cold symptoms and hit full force. Common flu symptoms include fever, sore throat, chest discomfort, headache, chills, muscle aches or soreness, and congestion.
Flu symptoms generally improve in a few days but can last for about a week or even longer.
Who's At Risk Of Serious Flu Complications
What makes the flu become deadly? The influenza virus can influence other health problems such as pneumonia. These health problems can become deadly, especially for children, adults over 65, and those with chronic lung illness.
The Mayo Clinic states that Pneumonia is the most serious complication of the flu virus, which can be deadly. Children and adults with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease are at risk of serious flu complications.
How Does The Flu Spread
How does the flu spread? The influenza virus spreads when people with a flu cough, sneeze or talk to others when they are sick. It's also believed the carrier of the flu virus can infect other people who are at least 6 feet away, according to CDC.
Other ways people can get the flu is by touching their nose or mouth after touching a dirty surface.
How To Fight The Flu
Theraflu can help decrease nasal congestion, coughs, sore throat, headaches, body aches, and sinus congestion. However, there are best ways to fight the flu. These include drinking enough fluids, eating healthy food, being physically active, managing stress, and getting enough sleep. In fact, it is deemed important to get seven to nine hours of sleep to reboot the immune system.
"If you're exposed to germs throughout the day, and if your body is not recharged, you're more likely to get sick," said Chris Brantner, a certified sleep coach.
