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.