Common Cold

What is the common cold?

The common cold is a viral infection that messes with your nose, throat, and chest. It’s usually caused by the rhinovirus. But it’s just a germ that loves to spread fast, especially when someone sneezes around you or you touch something they’ve touched.

Why do we catch colds?

• Shaking hands with someone who has it
• Touching infected surfaces (like door handles or the money the trotro mate gave you)
• Breathing in droplets from coughs and sneezes

What are the signs?

• Nose troubles: Runny or blocked nose, sneezing, postnasal drip (that annoying mucus running down your throat).
• Head struggles: Sore throat, headache, watery eyes, mild fever.
• Body aches: Feeling weak, chills, tiredness
• Coughing: Dry or mucus-filled 

Cold or flu?

Sometimes it’s hard to tell, but flu hits harder and faster, with a sudden fever and body aches. The cold is usually milder.

How to get better fast?

• Rest, your body needs it.
• Drink plenty fluids such as ginger tea, water, sobolo)
• Vapor rub 
• Gargle salt water for sore throat relief 
• Steam inhalation (Hot water + menthol) •      No antibiotics. It’s a virus, not bacteria.

NB: A cold lasts 7-10 days, but if it overstays its welcome, see a doctor.