Colds and flu are common illnesses that affect many people, especially during colder months. Here we answer six frequently asked questions about these diseases to help you better understand and manage them.
1. What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
A cold is a milder infection of the upper respiratory tract, usually caused by rhinovirus 1 . Symptoms include nasal congestion, sore throat and mild cough.
Influenza is caused by the influenza virus and is generally more serious. Symptoms may include high fever, muscle aches, fatigue and dry cough. Influenza can lead to complications such as sinusitis and pneumonia. I believe these complications can occur with any upper respiratory tract infection (URTI).
2. How long is a person contagious with a cold or flu?
A person with a cold can be contagious from one day before the onset of symptoms to up to five days after 3 .. For the flu, contagiousness can be from one day before symptoms to about seven days after 4 .. It is important to stay home when you are sick to reduce the spread. Previous information in the Swedish version suggested that colds are contagious during the entire period of illness, but this needs to be adjusted according to current knowledge.
3. Can you exercise when you have a cold or a sore throat?
It is generally not recommended to exercise when you have a cold or if you have a sore throat 5 . Physical exertion can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery time. Care should be taken especially with strep throat without fever, as it may be a sign of strep throat which requires medical treatment.
4. What home remedies can relieve the symptoms?
- Honey : A spoonful of honey can relieve sore throat and cough 6 .
- Lemon and ginger : A hot drink with lemon and ginger can strengthen the immune system and relieve swollen tonsils 7 .
- Hot drinks and soups : Drinking hot liquids can relieve sore throat and earache 8 .
5. How can colds and flu be prevented?
- Vaccination : Getting vaccinated against influenza reduces the risk of getting sick 9 .
- Good hand hygiene : Wash your hands regularly to avoid infection 10 .
- Using ColdZyme : ColdZyme is an oral spray that can protect against cold viruses by forming a barrier in the oral cavity and throat. Use it at the first sign of a cold for best effect.
6. How can ColdZyme help prevent colds?
ColdZyme works by creating an osmotically active barrier on the mucous membrane of the oral cavity and pharynx, which reduces the ability of the virus to attach and cause infection. By using ColdZyme early, you can:
- Reduce the risk of infection : The barrier prevents viruses from establishing themselves on the mucous membrane.
- Shorten the course of illness : If you are already infected, ColdZyme can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
- Use preventively : Particularly effective in environments with a high risk of infection, such as public transport or public events.
By understanding the differences between colds and flu, and how to prevent and treat them, you can better manage your health during periods of illness.
Note: Always read the instructions and guidelines that come with health products like ColdZyme to ensure they are used safely and effectively.
Sources:
- The Public Health Authority. (2019). Cold . https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/
- 1177 The care guide. (2021). Influenza . https://www.1177.se/
- The Swedish Association for Infection Prevention and Control. (2020). Contagiousness during colds . https://www.slf.se/
- World Health Organization. (2020). Influenza – Questions and Answers . https://www.who.int/
- 1177 The care guide. (2020). Exercise in case of illness . https://www.1177.se/
- 1177 The care guide. (2019). Sore throat and home remedies . https://www.1177.se/
- (2021). Home remedies for colds . https://www.apoteket.se/
- 1177 The care guide. (2021). Advice for colds . https://www.1177.se/
- The Public Health Authority. (2021). Vaccination against influenza . https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/
- The Public Health Authority. (2020). Hand hygiene . https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/