Hollibaugh: Is it a cold, or is it the flu?

Published 4:46 am Saturday, December 14, 2019

Flu season is here, just in time for cold temperatures and holiday preparations, and Louisiana is seeing an extremely high volume of flu and flu-like cases at this point. Because we’re indoors more often and in contact with many more people than usual over the holidays, it’s easy to get sick. But is it the flu? Or just a cold?

The difference

Because flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, it’s easy to confuse the two. They share some symptoms, and rates of each often rise this time of year.

In general, if you have flu, you’ll feel much worse than a common cold. Flu symptoms tend to be more intense and come on more quickly, even abruptly. Flu typically causes fever, aches, chills and overall fatigue or weakness. It’s also common to have a cough, uncomfortable chest and headache. In addition, flu can lead to more serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections and even hospitalization.

People with colds are more likely to have runny or stuffy noses, sneezing and sore throat – symptoms typically not associated with the flu virus. Colds also don’t generally cause serious health problems.

Steering clear of both

The single best way to guard against flu is to get vaccinated. The flu virus changes every year, which is why everyone six months and older needs to get a flu shot each year. By getting vaccinated, you also help prevent the spread of the flu, especially to people who are vulnerable to infection, like babies and the elderly. Studies have shown that the flu vaccination can significantly reduce a child’s risk of dying from the flu. Even if you think you can’t get a flu shot, talk to your healthcare provider. Chances are there’s a vaccine out there that will work for you.

In addition to getting a flu shot, you can help protect yourself, your family and your community against the flu and common colds with these simple habits:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw away the tissue and wash your hands with soap and water.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.

Some flu seasons are more severe than others and this one is on pace to be very active. By following the above guidelines, you can help keep yourself, your family and your community safer from flu.

For more information about this flu season, including a state-by-state flu map, visit the CDC website www.cdc.gov/flu for regular updates. You can also visit www.ochsner.org/flu for more tips to help you prepare.

Dr. Becky Hollibaugh offers family medicine services in LaPlace. She received her medical degree from Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed her residency in family medicine in Lincoln, Nebraska. Dr. Hollibaugh’s approach to medicine is holistic, and she enjoys the aspects of family practice that involve caring for all ages. She prides herself on incorporating emotional, social and spiritual needs within her practice in addition to physical needs. To schedule an appointment with her at Ochsner Health Center-LaPlace Medical (735 W. 5th Street), please call (985) 652-9504 or schedule online at www.ochsner.org.