Cold and Flu aren't the Same

The sun has risen and flowers have started to bloom, marking the end of the winter season. But, one thing still prevails - the 'common cold'. Contrary to common beliefs that cold is a seasonal thing, we see people with runny noses nearly all round the year. Fact to be noted is that common-cold is caused by the Rhino virus, which can occur anytime round the year but flu is caused by Influenza virus, which is more of a seasonal thing and is epidemic in nature.
The common-cold's symptoms are limited to sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, sneezing and cough, sometimes accompanied by muscle aches, fatigue, malaise, headache, weakness and watery eyes. But If we notice high fever, nausea and vomiting along with the above mentioned symptoms, then it is alarming, as it could be flu (caused by  Influenza virus), and requires medical attention. It is worth mentioning that Influenza is more common in children, and, as they are school-going, it can spread to others. This virus can also cause diarrhea or gastroenteritis, which is sometimes referred as Stomach-flu.

Scientists have given various explanations regarding the causes of flu, such as decrease in sunlight, drier weather during winter, clustering of people in homes, less immunity etc, but none are yet established. Luckily, Bangladesh has a tropical weather and is less suitable as a breeding ground for Influenza, and hence possibilities of Influenza outbreak are less common here, than in countries with more frigid weather. Plus Influenza vaccines and Anti-viral drugs are available, so, if treated early, it can be cured with no complications.
On the other hand, common cold (caused by Rhino virus) is a simple case. Treatment is symptomatic, if it bugs too much. Or else, no medication is required and sickness fades usually within a week. The important thing is to have a healthy lifestyle to prevent it as there are no vaccines for the common cold. You may notice, escaping good sleep, having a stressful day, travelling too much or not taking food on time leads to runny noses, itching eyes and nasal congestion. This is not fully related to weather; rather it is related to diminished immunity. Drinking lots of water, getting enough sleep, taking a walk in the sun, eating food on time is enough to prevent the common cold.
For those, who are already suffering from it, drinking hot raw tea, with a twist of lemon and salt and ginger to taste is the best cure. Food containing Vitamin C, D, and pure honey are an added benefit to boost your immune system. Spicy hot chicken soup also works like magic by shortening the suffering by 2-3 days.

The thing to remember is that cold and Flu viruses can't cause illness unless they find a way into your body, and they can enter through the mouth, nose or eyes (conjunctivitis). Hence be careful to wash your hands when you touch things used publicly that include door knobs, pens and currency notes. It is best to wash your hands after a days' work or after you come back from outside.  
FACT: Antibiotics treat bacteria, not viruses. Since both the common cold and influenza are viral infections, antibiotics will not help. But, they are still sometimes prescribed to children to prevent pneumonia.
The writer is Project Research Physician
Centre for Population, Urbanization and Climate Change (CPUCC)
International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B)