Flu (Influenza), Colds, URI (Upper Respiratory Infection)

The flu, (Influenza Virus Disease) is for the most part often confused with the cold.

A cold is a common catarrhal disorder of the upper respiratory tract, which may be viral, a mixed infection or an allergic reaction.

An allergic cold is commonly known as hay fever. A cold sore is a herpes simplex infection of the lips. The flu, is a respiratory infection often caused by type A and type B influenza viruses that enter and attack the nose, throat, bronchial tubes, upper and lower lungs and middle ear. The flu is a highly contagious infection, and is most common in the fall and winter.

Cold and flu infects millions of Americans each winter resulting in over $18 billion in lost wages and medical expense annually. This includes medical costs and indirect costs, such as lost earnings that are due to illness. A bad case of this illness can send an otherwise healthy person to bed for 3 to 5 days; cough and tiredness may persist for up to 2 weeks. More serious cases of the flu can result in hospitalization and even death.

It is often necessary to differentiate between the flu and the cold as treatments may vary.

The onset of flu often seems sudden; people described feeling like they have "been hit by a truck." Sudden onset, fever, dry cough, muscle aches, and pains, and chills are clues that you may have the flu. If they are report of flu in the vicinity and you have these classic flu symptoms. Chances are high that it is influenza.

What is the difference between the flu and a cold?

Many people confuse the flu and a cold. Yet it is important to know the difference so that you can seek treatment for the flu as soon as possible. If you think you have the flu, seek help immediately. The "Flu shot" is recommended for influenza prevention. Over the counter medications can temporarily relieve symptoms of the flu, but don't treat its cause.

The following individuals have been recommended to benefit from yearly flu vaccination.

• Health Care Workers
• Seriously ill Patients for example:
• Diabetes
• Cancer
• End Stage Kidney Failure
• End Stage Liver Failure
• Heart Condition
• Alcoholics
• Children younger than 14
• Elderly over the age of 65
• Inmates
• Soldiers in barracks