Cold and Flu Facts
About the common cold:
- The common cold is an upper respiratory tract infection. Most colds are caused by a viral infection.
- There are over 200 distinct cold viruses. The virus enters the body by contaminated fingers or by droplets from coughs or sneezes.
- Adults generally experience 3-4 colds a year, while children may suffer from 7-10 colds per year, as their immune systems are not as strong.This makes it the most common illness in humans.
- Colds are spread by close contact with someone who has a cold, and is often passed between family members.
- Colds are more common in winter as people spend more time indoors with each other, increasing the risk of infection.
- You can help fight your cold with rest and plenty of water. You can also choose a Demazin product which has been specially formulated to provide effective symptomatic relief of cold and flu.The common cold is the most ‘common’ disease in humans.
About the Flu:
- Also known as ‘influenza’, the flu is a very contagious disease caused by the influenza type A, B or (rarely) C virus.
- As with the cold, the virus is spread by coughing and sneezing, but it can also live on hands and even surfaces like phones and doorknobs.
- In Australia, flu outbreaks usually occur between May and September each year.
- An estimated 80,000 Australians require medical attention each year as a result of the flu.
- Bed rest, drinking plenty of fluids and an effective over-the-counter medication like Demazin may be sufficient to relieve symptoms in the majority of flu cases. Most people recover from the flu in about a week.
Don't forget though, if flu symptoms are severe or not improving, be sure to seek medical attention.