The best protection against colds and influenza is a strong immune system, built through good nutrition and exercise.

I’m sure many of you have already noticed that we are now into the cold and flu season. So what does all this sniffling and coughing really mean?

The viruses that cause colds and flu – or more accurately influenza – are not the same. Cold and influenza viruses are present in the air we breathe and on things we touch, from door handles to mobile phones. And both attack the nose, throat and lungs. But influenza viruses are potentially more deadly; they kill about 100 people in New Zealand each year. The influenza virus develops new strains every year, so influenza vaccines have to be updated and given annually. The vaccine itself cannot give you influenza. No one has found a cure for the common cold and the vaccine does not prevent colds. Echinacea and vitamin C in large amounts has not been a proven remedy.

What happens in your body?

The cold or flu virus invades the nasal passages so your immune system fights back by producing a sore throat, headache and stuffy nose. The stronger your immune system, the better. The elderly and very young may not have such strong defences. A cold is less severe than a bout of influenza, which usually comes on suddenly and includes fever, aching muscles, tiredness and a dry cough. Children may exhibit vomiting and diarrhoea. But, unlike a cold, seasonal influenza can lead to more serious pneumonia.

What should you do?

• Most of us will not get seriously ill but be aware that children can develop infections quickly.
• Antibiotics are no use unless a bacterial infection develops.
• Get plenty of rest, lots of fluids and use paracetamol (strictly as directed) for fever or headaches.
• Sip hot lemon with honey rather than buying cough medicines.
• Stay at home until symptoms ease but see your GP if not improving.
• Stop infection spreading by frequently washing hands and use tissues for coughs and sneezes.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick, if possible.
• Talk to your GP about flu vaccines, or visit www.influenza.org.nz

DIY: BEATING THE WINTER BUGS
1 Drink the juice of one lemon in boiling water daily without sweetener (your daily dose of Vitamin C – and a great liver cleanser). 2 Get out for walks in the rain, hail or snow. Wear comfortably warm clothing. It will do wonders for the body and soul.	3 If you are cold, try adding extra layers of clothing instead of sitting around heaters. Saves you heaps of electricity and hot environments encourage viruses. 4 Leave windows and doors open whenever possible to circulate fresh air.

(Published in the Sunday News, 7 June 2009)

More everybody MYHEALTH columns from Barbara Docherty

Barbara Docherty is a registered nurse and clinical lecturer at the University of Auckland School of Nursing, and writer for the everybody.co.nz website. The opinions contained herein are those of the author and not necessarily those of the publisher or sponsor. Copyright UBM Medica (NZ) Ltd.