Most people will experience several bouts of influenza throughout their lifetime—an estimated 10-25% of Canadians get the flu each year, and thousands are hospitalized as a result of its complications.
The flu is an infection of the respiratory tract that is caused by the influenza virus. It’s spread mainly through airborne transmission, when an infected person sneezes, coughs or speaks. A person can infect others one day before having flu symptoms, and up to five days after becoming ill.
Though the common cold and seasonal influenza share similar symptoms, there are key differences between the two that can help you identify which you may have.
Typical cold symptoms have a gradual onset and may start with a sore throat or irritated sinuses. The most common signs of a cold are nasal congestion, sneezing, and runny nose. Symptoms can also include a cough, mild headache, and minor body aches. Young children may get a low-grade fever, but a fever in older children or adults typically indicates the flu. People are generally contagious during the first three days they have a cold. Symptoms tend to go away within a week.
Unlike the common cold, flu symptoms can begin suddenly and vigorously, often starting with a high-grade fever, headache, body aches, and fatigue. Also, flu symptoms can include a dry cough, sore throat, and sometimes a runny or stuffy nose. Symptoms are generally more severe with the flu than with a cold and can last for a week or more—though they tend to improve gradually after two to five days. You should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone to avoid passing your illness to others.
Some strategies can help you avoid getting sick. A vaccine is your best chance of preventing influenza. Current guidelines recommend that anyone over six months of age should receive an annual flu vaccine. Health Canada also urges that those at high risk for complications from the flu, including young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic conditions, and those 65 years or older, also receive an annual shot.
Other flu prevention tips include:
If you get the flu, stay home from work or school for at least 24 hours after your fever goes away to avoid spreading the illness. To ease your symptoms, try the following:
The flu is usually manageable with rest and over-the-counter medicine. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to help shorten your sick time. Don’t be surprised though, if your doctor doesn’t prescribe antibiotics; they’re only effective against bacteria and will be of no use against the flu virus.
Potentially serious health complications can occur in people suffering from the flu. Call your doctor if you think your symptoms are worsening or if you have a condition such as asthma, diabetes, or are pregnant. Seek immediate medical attention if you display any of the following warning signs:
Canada’s flu season usually starts in October, when colder temperatures bring people into closer contact indoors. The best time to get a flu shot is in October or November before the virus is circulating widely—but it’s never too late Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC).
For more information about this year’s flu shot, visit ontario.ca.