10 signs that distinguish the flu from a cold

The article was expertly consulted by BSCK I Nguyen Hong Phuc - Emergency Department, Vinmec Phu Quoc International General Hospital.

The flu or seasonal flu is a common preventable illness that is often confused with the common cold. However, the course of the flu is very unpredictable, even leading to complications and death.

Influenza is an infectious disease caused by influenza viruses. There are 3 types of influenza viruses that cause illness in humans, depending on the type that can easily cause an epidemic or not. Influenza is transmitted through the respiratory tract, directly through droplets when the patient sneezes or indirectly through hand contact and then touching the eyes, nose and mouth. Influenza progression : Incubation period 1 to 4 days, infectious period: can begin 1 day before fever, last up to 7 days in adults, even months in immunocompromised people. Influenza will show symptoms from mild to severe, severe cases or complications require hospital monitoring and risk of death.

Influenza is a contagious disease with varied manifestations, ranging from mild to severe and can be fatal. Sometimes the flu is confused with a common cold, so it is important to distinguish it for proper monitoring and treatment.
>>> Get cured immediately with 9 very simple cold treatment tips

People who are susceptible to colds and flu include:
Young or old: Under 5 years old or over 65 years old. Pregnant women Having long-term chronic diseases: respiratory diseases such as asthma, COPD, cardiovascular diseases such as heart failure, liver disease, diabetes... Teenagers use aspirin for a long time.

The most effective way to prevent flu is to get the flu vaccine, wash your hands often with soap, increase nutrition and practice sports...
Notes on flu vaccination:
Age of onset Influenza vaccination: From 6 months of age and older As the main measure to prevent and avoid serious complications of the flu The prevention effect begins about 2 to 3 weeks after vaccination (protection is 50 - 80%) Protection time is about 6 to 12 months after injection, so booster shots are needed every year for best protection.

Pregnant women Children, from 6 months old to 8 years old Adults over 65 years People with chronic diseases: diabetes, asthma, COPD, HIV ... Health workers.