The cold and flu season is nearly upon us and it’s time to consider whether or not to have a flu shot. It’s appropriate for virtually everyone to have the flu vaccine and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are now recommending it for people over 50. Others should consider it, as well. Before going further, let’s dispel a couple of myths. First, the influenza vaccine cannot give someone the flu. The vaccine contains no active RNA and is basically an inactive shell of the influenza virus. However, after receiving the vaccine, some people – primarily those receiving it for the first time – experience a low-grade fever or some minor aches. Second, many people equate the stomach flu with influenza. There is a big difference between the two. The former is akin to having the summertime intestinal bug, which can cause diarrhea and cramping. The real thing does not affect intestines, but does result in high fever, intense headache, the chills, muscle aches from head to toe, profound fatigue, and deep, non-productive coughing. One note of caution, however: People who are allergic to eggs should consult their physician before having the vaccine administered. The benefits of having the vaccine probably outweigh the risks, but it is best to check with your doctor. For others, it is a good idea to let their doctor know that you’ve had the vaccine so it becomes part of your medical record. The common cold and influenza are viral infections that spread through contact and by breathing infected droplets spread by sneezing or coughing. They differ in symptoms, onset, and severity. The cold typically has a slow onset that begins with a tickle in the back of the nose or throat. Often it turns into nasal pain and prompts sneezing and nasal drainage. Some experience a mild sore throat. The cold usually runs its course in three to 10 days. It’s often a good idea to take a day or two off from work or school if you can to recover and not spread the virus to others. Cold sufferers should rest and drink a lot of fluids. Influenza is much more severe than the common cold. Many people describe it as being hit by a truck. Onset is very rapid – you can go from feeling well and normal to absolutely miserable within hours. The effects can last for two to four weeks and many sufferers are confined to bed. If the flu symptoms are severe enough, you should call your doctor within a day or two. There are anti-viral treatments now available to treat influenza, such as Flumadine (the generic is rimandtadine) or Tamiflu (oseltamivir). Again, nearly everyone, including children, should consider the flu vaccine, which might also prevent the common cold. A study two years ago at the VA Medical Center in Minnesota found that healthy individuals who had the flu vaccine experienced fewer upper respiratory infections and cold-like symptoms. Dr. Jon Hallberg is a family physician in the Medical School’s Department of Family Practice and Community Health. He speaks on a health topic every Wednesday afternoon on Minnesota Public Radio. This column is an educational service, and advice presented should not take the place of an examination by a health-care professional. To ask a health-care expert at the University a question, or for more health-related information, go to www.healthtalkandyou.com.
