Cold and Flu Season Is Here: What You Need to Know

It’s that time of year again. The air is crisp, leaves are changing, pumpkin-flavored everything is back, and unfortunately, flu and colds are on the rise.

The common cold is caused by viruses such as rhinovirus, adenovirus, non-COVID coronaviruses, and RSV. The flu, on the other hand, is caused by the influenza virus, most commonly Influenza A and B.

These viruses spread easily through airborne particles and close contact. Sneezing, coughing, shaking hands, or even kissing. They attack the upper respiratory tract—your nose and throat. Cases spike in fall and winter because we spend more time indoors in close quarters, and dry nasal passages make us more vulnerable to infection.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands often with soap and warm water; use sanitizer when needed.
2. Avoid contact with sick individuals.
3. Get vaccinated: The annual flu shot is the best defense and is recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
4. Boost your immune system: Sleep well, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercise regularly, and manage stress.

Cold vs. Flu: How to Tell the Difference

Symptom	Cold	Flu
Onset	Gradual	Intense
Fever	Rare/low-grade	Common, often high
Fatigue	Mild	Moderate to severe
Sneezing	Common	Less common
Cough	Mild/moderate	Common, can be severe
Headache	Mild	Common
Duration	4-7 days	5-14 days

What to Do if You're Sick

• Avoid contact with others, especially high-risk individuals.
• Get plenty of rest and fluids.
• Test yourself: OTC flu tests are widely available.
• Seek medical attention if you have warning signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, high fever lasting more than 3 days, severe dehydration, dizziness, or symptoms that worsen after improving.

Both colds and flu are highly contagious and can make life miserable for days or even weeks. Knowing the difference helps you take the right steps for recovery.

Ready to Stay Healthy This Season?

If you’re looking for a new family provider, click the link below to set up an appointment with Dr. Sarkaria today. Don’t wait—your health matters!

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Dr. Jocelyn Sarkaria practices Family Medicine at the Saint Alphonsus Family Medicine Meridian Health Plaza clinic.

Additional article of interest: How to Manage Flu Symptoms