It’s that time of year again! This time of year presents plenty of opportunities for viruses to spread. Chilly weather keeps more of us indoors at the same time, and the holiday season brings together family members of all ages. Colds and flu (influenza) can occur anytime, but appear mostly in the fall and winter. For most people, viral respiratory illnesses are usually self-limited and last only a few days. People who get the flu usually know the exact day that it hit, whereas a cold tends to come on gradually. Both colds and flu cause inflammation of the mucous membranes (found in the nose, throat and mouth). Symptoms for colds and flu can be similar; both can cause a stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and fever. We help in lowering the chance of infection: We get a flu shot, we wash ours hands regularly, we disinfect toys, and surfaces reached by little fingers, we stay at home and we rest with plenty of liquids.
