Northern Lehigh Elementary Schools 

Health Room

Cold or Flu?

How do you know if your child or you have a nasty cold or a serious bout of the flu?  The first symptoms of the flu can seem like a cold, but don't be fooled!

Cold Symptoms:   

• Stuffy nose

• General fatigue

• Sneezes

• Sore throat

Flu symptoms:

• Fever

• Chills

• Major body aches

• Dry hacking cough

Treatment:  Get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids and take acetaminophen for discomfort.  You may also use appropriate over-the-counter remedies, such as a decongestant or cough syrup.  You'll recover from a simple cold in about a week, but the worst symptoms should improve in three to five days.  The flu can last longer, at least seven to ten days.

To lessen the frequency of colds or the flu:

• Wash hands frequently

• Keep hands away from eyes, nose and mouth

• Avoid prolonged contact with an infected person

• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water

• Eat a balanced diet

• Limit intake of caffeine

• Get plenty of rest

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Information from Student Health Services

California State University at Bakersfield