FAQs
A cold or a flu? It is important to tell the difference.
People often think they have the flu when in fact they have a cold. In some cases, flu can be serious and may require treatment by your doctor, so it is important to know the difference. Flu often starts abruptly and may be accompanied by a fever, usually 38oC or higher. Other general symptoms may include body and muscle aches as well as a headache.
What are the major symptoms of a common cold and when do they occur?
The main symptoms of the common cold appear within 10–16 hours of being exposed, and typically reach their worst within 36–72 hours.
The main symptoms of the common cold:
- Nasal congestion
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Cough
- Hoarseness
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Mild general symptoms like headache, chills, and general tiredness.
How long does a typical cold last?
Colds are self-limiting, with symptoms typically lasting for about one-week. Every time a person experiences a cold, their body generates new antibodies and learns to fight the infection. Therefore as one gets older, immunity to cold viruses increases, which results in fewer colds in adults.
How can someone prevent a cold from infecting the whole family?
Once a member of the family is infected with a cold, it is common for other family members to become infected.
Cold viruses can be passed from person to person by hand contact or by touching contaminated surfaces. The most effective way to prevent the spread of a cold is to practice good hygiene:
- wash your hands often with soap and water and use your own towel to dry them.
- keep your hands away from your face, this stops any hand-borne virus from reaching the mouth.
- regularly blow your nose, use tissues only once, and throw tissues in the bin after use.
- avoid sharing glasses, dishes or cutlery.