It´s that time of year again, when the flu (influenza) tends to rear its ugly head and bite us from behind.  But how do we know if we really have the flu or just a cold and should we be worried about the latest reports on swine flu?

The common cold is caused by a viral infection and the symptoms usually include a runny or blocked nose, coughing, sneezing and sore throat and tend to start quite gradually.  While these symptoms may also appear with the flu, the flu is far more debilitating and comes on far more quickly, including headaches, general pain in the muscles and joints, high temperature, loss of appetite and extreme fatigue.  In both cases the viruses are extremely contagious and can not only be spread by coughing and sneezing, but also by contact, whether this is shaking hands, kissing or even touching a computer keyboard, telephone or doorknob which has the flu virus on it.  When we then touch our mouth or nose we transmit the virus and will generally feel symptoms within 2-4 days.  Flu usually reaches its peak in about 3 days and it is usual to feel well again after 1 week, although general tiredness may continue for a further 1-2 weeks. 

Although flu vaccines are widely available, there are many different strains of flu, including the infamous swine flu and this is often the reason why despite having received the current flu vaccine, we still fall ill.  Recommended treatment is to stay warm, rest, take plenty of fluids and also to take paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce the fever.  It is not usually necessary to visit a doctor or hospital unless the flu causes a deterioration of an existing condition such as asthma or other lung conditions, if you are over 65 or pregnant or if you suffer from other long term conditions such as diabetes, heart, kidney or lung disease of if you have a weak immune system.  You will also need medical attention if it develops into a secondary infection such as an ear infection, sinusitis, or more seriously, bronchitis or pneumonia, in which cases medical attention is required immediately.  

Swine flu (H1N1) itself is a fairly new strain of the flu virus and has similar symptoms to other types of flu.  It has a similar incubation period and recovery time as regular flu however it is usually accompanied by a dry cough and can cause diarrhoea or vomiting and sometimes you will feel short of breath.  Personal care is the same for H1N1 as it is for regular flu.

In all cases, the best ways to prevent spreading the virus are to cover your mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing and to dispose of tissues straight away; use good hygiene at all times by washing your hands regularly and also clean surfaces and objects that you have touched.

Clearly we all have a better chance of remaining healthy if our immune systems are strong, so the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruit, veg and olive oil is something we can take advantage of here in Spain.  So why not dust off your juicing machine, stock up on fresh veg and help yourself to keep those bugs at bay.  Hoping you stay warm and healthy this winter!