Many people think that influenza is simply a common cold with slightly worse symptoms, but in reality influenza is caused by a different group of viruses than the ordinary cold. It comes on quickly, with more severe symptoms, and in at-risk groups it can progress to complications such as pneumonia, leading to hospitalisation or even death. The good news is that influenza can be prevented by getting vaccinated every year.
How influenza differs from the common cold
Although the symptoms may be similar at first, influenza and the common cold have noticeable differences. Telling them apart helps you care for yourself correctly and know when to see a doctor.
- Common cold: symptoms come on gradually, mainly a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion and a mild sore throat, usually without a high fever
- Influenza: symptoms come on quickly, within a few hours, with a high fever, severe body aches, marked fatigue and a distinct headache
Symptoms of influenza
The symptoms of influenza usually appear suddenly and disrupt daily life more than an ordinary cold. Common symptoms include:
- Sudden high fever, often accompanied by chills
- Aching muscles throughout the body
- Headache and sore throat
- A dry cough
- Unusually severe fatigue
Who is at risk of complications
Generally healthy people usually recover on their own within 1–2 weeks, but in some groups influenza can become severe and lead to complications more easily, so they should be monitored with particular care.
- Young children, especially those under 2 years of age
- Older adults aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease and kidney disease
- People with weakened immunity
Prevention
Influenza can be prevented through simple everyday habits, alongside getting vaccinated every year.
- Get the influenza vaccine once a year
- Wash your hands frequently with soap or alcohol gel
- Wear a face mask when ill, or when in crowded places
- Cover your mouth and nose every time you cough or sneeze
Who should get the influenza vaccine
It is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over, especially those at risk of complications. Doctor Chat Clinic offers the influenza vaccine, administered by a doctor every day.
Self-care when ill
If you have influenza, the right initial care helps you recover faster and reduces the spread of the virus to those around you.
- Rest enough and drink plenty of fluids
- Use the fever-reducing medicine paracetamol to relieve fever and body aches
- The antiviral medicine (oseltamivir) works best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset, and must be used only as prescribed by a doctor
- Stay away from others to avoid spreading the virus until your symptoms improve
Warning signs that require urgent medical care
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness or pain
- Drowsiness, confusion, or being difficult to wake
- Bluish lips or nails
- A high fever that does not subside, or symptoms that improve then worsen again
- In young children: refusing to feed, or unusual lethargy
