<p> What You Should Know About Viral Infections like a Cold or Flu What is a viral infection? A virus cannot reproduce by Itself. It makes you sick by taking over some cells of your body in order to multiply. Examples of viral infections are colds and flu.</p><p>What are the symptoms of a cold or flu? Common symptoms are weakness, cough, headache, fever, aching muscles, and red, watery eyes.</p><p>How do you get a cold or flu? When someone with a cold or flu coughs or sneezes, droplets containing the virus are easily passed from person to person through touch or inhalation through the nose or mouth.</p><p>Can a cold or flu be prevented? There is no vaccine that will prevent a cold. A flu vaccine Is recommended for elderly persons and persons with a chronic illness. Because the flu virus varies slightly from year to year, it is important for these people to get a flu shot annually.</p><p>Other ways to prevent a cold and flu: follow a good diet, drink plenty of fluids, get adequate rest, and do not share personal items like toothpaste, drinking cups, and eating utensils with other members of the household.</p><p>Should I see my doctor? Most of the time, colds and flu can be treated at home. But for some symptoms, and for symptoms that persist, you should see your doctor.</p><p>These include: • Fever over 103•F (102•F in the elderly) • Cough that produces significant amounts of colored mucus • Difficulty breathing or chest pain • Very red sore throat with white patches • Persistent runny nose (more than 5 days) with green or yellow discharge • Severe headache • Symptoms that worsen after 3-5 days or persist more than 14 days</p><p>What is the treatment? If you do get a cold or flu, antibiotics will not fight it. Antibiotics are effective only for bacterial infections. Treatment, including over-the-counter medications, will not cure the cold or flu, but will help you feel better until your body's defenses control the virus.</p><p>Steps to take: • Drink plenty of fluids • Take a pain reliever for headache and muscle aches • Get bed rest • Avoid smoking, and excessively dry air</p><p>Follow your doctor's advice If the cause of your infection is a virus, antibiotics will not work. Your doctor will decide the best treatment for your condition. Be sure to ask your doctor if you have questions about the treatment recommended for you.</p><p>Russell Sadberry: Reprinted from Memorial Hermann Healthcare System</p>