Cold & Flu Information

Often the main symptoms of an adult’s cold & flu can be sinus congestion, headache, a possible fever, blocked nasal passages, aches and pains.

Dimetapp offers you a range of products which help to relieve symptoms of cold and flu.

 

What is a cold?

Cold and flu may seem similar, but it’s important to understand the differences between the two.

The common cold is a viral infection of the nose, throat and nasal sinuses characterised by inflammation, discharge and nasal congestion.

On average, adults can get 2 – 4 colds each year. Children generally tend to get 5 – 7 colds a year.^{1, 2}

Symptoms to look for include:

• sore throat
• runny nose
• post nasal drip
• watery eyes
• nasal stuffiness
• cough

A child with a cold may have a slight fever, but fever with a cold is unusual in adults.

 

What is the Flu?

Influenza, also known as the flu, is a viral infection of the air passages and lungs. The flu is caused by a different set of viruses to a cold, and although some symptoms are similar to a cold, symptoms of the flu tend to be more severe.

In addition to symptoms of a cold, a person suffering from the flu will also have muscular aches and pains, followed by a sudden onset of chills and fever developing over a 24-hour period. A severe headache is common, followed by a sore throat, a dry cough, sore or inflamed eyes and a general feeling of listlessness. Nausea and vomiting may occur in children.

 

What to do when you have a cold or a flu?

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially if you have a fever. Liquids are also soothing to a dry, irritated throat, and may help relieve coughing.
• Get adequate rest in a well-ventilated room.
• Use a cold-mist vaporiser to increase the humidity in the air. This can help loosen mucus and relieve a dry throat (be sure to clean the vaporiser after each use).
• Consider use of a symptomatic reliever, such as Dimetapp Cold, Cough and Flu products to help you get some well-deserved relief.