Colds and flu are common illnesses that affect many people, especially during the colder months. Here we answer six common questions to help you understand and manage these illnesses better.
1. What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
Colds are milder upper respiratory infections usually caused by rhinoviruses1. Symptoms include nasal congestion, sore throat, malaise, and mild cough.
Flu, caused by the influenza virus, is generally more severe2. Symptoms can include high fever, muscle aches, fatigue, and dry cough. The flu can lead to complications like sinus infections and pneumonia.
2. How long is a person contagious with a cold or the flu?
A person with a cold can be contagious from one day before symptoms start until up to five days after3. For the flu, contagiousness can last from one day before symptoms to about seven days after4. It’s important to stay home when you’re sick to reduce the spread since colds can be contagious throughout this period.
3. Can you exercise when you have a cold or sore throat?
It’s generally not recommended to exercise when you have a cold or sore throat5. Physical exertion can worsen symptoms and prolong recovery time. Especially with strep throat without fever, caution is advised as it may indicate streptococcal pharyngitis that requires medical treatment.
4. What home remedies can alleviate symptoms?
- Honey: A spoonful of honey can soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing6.
- Lemon and Ginger: A warm drink with lemon and ginger can boost the immune system and soothe swollen tonsils7.
- Warm Drinks and Soups: Drinking warm liquids can ease a sore throat and ear pain8.
5. How can you prevent colds and the flu?
- Vaccination: Getting vaccinated against the flu reduces your risk of getting sick9.
- Good Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing helps prevent infection10.
- Using ColdZyme: ColdZyme is an oral spray that can protect against cold viruses by forming a barrier in the mouth and throat. Use it at the first signs of a cold for best results.
6. How can ColdZyme help protect against colds?
ColdZyme works by creating an osmotically active barrier on the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat, reducing the ability of viruses to attach and cause infection. By using ColdZyme early, you can:
- Reduce the Risk of Infection: The barrier hinders viruses from establishing themselves on the mucous membrane
- Shorten the Duration of Illness: If you’re already infected, ColdZyme can help lessen the severity and length of symptoms
- Use Preventively: Particularly effective in environments with a high risk of infection, such as public transport or crowded events
By understanding the differences between colds and flu, and how to prevent and treat them, you can better manage your health during illness periods.
Note: Always read the instructions and guidelines provided with health products like ColdZyme to ensure they are used safely and effectively.
Footnotes
- Folkhälsomyndigheten. (2019). Förkylning. https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/
- 1177 Vårdguiden. (2021). Influensa. https://www.1177.se/
- Smittskyddsläkarföreningen. (2020). Smittsamhet vid förkylning. https://www.slf.se/
- Världshälsoorganisationen. (2020). Influensa – Frågor och svar. https://www.who.int/
- 1177 Vårdguiden. (2020). Träning vid sjukdom. https://www.1177.se/
- 1177 Vårdguiden. (2019). Halsont och huskurer. https://www.1177.se/
- (2021). Huskurer vid förkylning. https://www.apoteket.se/
- 1177 Vårdguiden. (2021). Råd vid förkylning. https://www.1177.se/
- Folkhälsomyndigheten. (2021). Vaccination mot influensa. https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/
- Folkhälsomyndigheten. (2020). Handhygien. https://www.folkhalsomyndigheten.se/