Is the flu contagious?
The flu is most contagious early on in the course of the infection, such as the day before symptoms develop. And it's very common in the winter months because people tend to congregate indoors more. Close contact, handshaking and kissing helps facilitate the spread of the virus.
What is the difference between the flu virus and the common cold?
There are many different causes that can be responsible for a cold and produce "flu-like" symptoms. But often, people confuse the two, and will call every viral illness the "flu". A cold tends to linger on and on, and tends to come on more slowly, with upper respiratory tract symptoms. It's not necessarily accompanied by the high fevers and muscle aches associated with the flu.
When people get the flu, they will often describe it as having been perfectly well, then suddenly having a rapid or abrupt onset of fever, headache, sore throat, muscle aches, and they really feel like they've been "hit by a truck". Influenza generally runs its course in four or five days.
Are there any treatments for the flu?
There are some treatments for the flu. If these treatments are started within the first 24 to 48 hours, they usually shorten the duration of severe symptoms by one to two days but they will not cure it. There are four available medications: three by pill forms, one that's in inhalation form. These medications are only available by prescription.
Who would you recommend be treated for flu?
Generally speaking, treatment is reserved for people at higher risk of complications from having the flu, including those with weakened immune systems and the elderly.
