Cold, flu or Covid? How to prevent the most severe forms

During this autumn period, many people are coughing and have runny noses, maybe even someone close to you. But how do we know if it's just a cold, the flu or Covid? And how can we protect ourselves?

British doctor, Oscar Duke, also known as a presenter on the show with the BBC-That Morning Live, there given some practical advice.

Does cold weather bring on colds?

Duke said there is still no clear evidence that the cold weakens the immune system.
"Shorter days make us stay indoors more, in warm, closed environments - and this is the ideal environment for viruses," he stressed.

Children returning to school after summer vacation often bring home a host of viruses. Young students, who live in dormitories and party a lot, also spread the infection more quickly, as alcohol and fatigue weaken the body's natural defenses.

How to distinguish: cold, flu or Covid?

The cooling

-Starts gradually

-It affects the nose and throat more

-Early sign: feeling of pressure in the ear

-Cough with secretions

flu

-Starts suddenly

-You feel very tired.

-Fever, muscle aches, weakness

-Requires bed rest

-Dry cough

Covid

-Flu-like symptoms

-Loss of taste or smell

-Diarrhea or stomach upset

-New Stratus and Nimbus variants often appear with "stinging throat pain"

 "The symptoms of these viruses often overlap, but loss of smell or taste remains a typical sign of Covid," Duke stressed.

If symptoms do not improve after three weeks, or if you have breathing problems or other concomitant illnesses, it is advisable to seek medical help.

What can we do to feel better?

Our body has natural abilities to fight viruses, but some help is useful.

Paracetamol or ibuprofen: 

"These are the first choice for reducing fever and pain. But be careful, many cough syrups contain paracetamol, so don't overdo it," Duke warned.

Vitamin C: : 

Many think it helps against colds, but the doctor adds that "if you don't have a deficiency, a healthy and balanced diet is more important than supplements."

The main recommendation is rest and self-care.