Every year, millions of people worldwide are affected by respiratory viruses, like the common cold, influenza and COVID-19. While these illnesses often share similar symptoms, like congestion, a cough and fatigue, they’re caused by different viruses. These respiratory illnesses can range in severity and can lead to potential complications if not treated correctly.
Understanding these key differences provides the basis for correct diagnosis, effective treatment and curbing further spread of the illness. Read on to learn more about the differences between these respiratory viruses and how to best protect yourself against transmission.
Viral vs bacterial infections
Illnesses are either caused by viral or bacterial infections. As the name suggests, bacterial infections are caused by bacteria. Although your body is home to billions of bacteria, some bacteria can lead to infections, which make you sick. Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that can survive and reproduce outside of a host.
Similarly, viruses can cause infections. Both the common cold and influenza are caused by contagious viruses. Unlike bacteria, viruses need a host to be able to create new viral particles. As the virus multiplies, it creates an infection, which can make you sick.
Viral infections, including the common cold and flu, are contagious. While the route of transmission typically depends on the individual virus, colds and flus are often contracted by breathing in airborne droplets produced from coughs or sneezes or from touching a contaminated surface and then touching your nose, mouth or eyes.
The common cold
The common cold is a respiratory illness that can be caused by roughly 200 viruses. Symptoms are usually mild and include:
- Congestion or runny nose,
- Sneezing,
- Sore throat,
- Fatigue, and
- Headaches.
For most people, a cold will clear up within 7-10 days. You can often treat a cold yourself by staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest. You can also take over-the-counter medications, like paracetamol, to help relieve some of the symptoms of a cold. That said, if your symptoms don’t improve within a few days or you start experiencing more severe symptoms, like vomiting or difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Influenza (flu)
Influenza, or the flu for short, is usually caused by either influenza A or B viruses. These two viruses comprise many different strains and subtypes that tend to change each flu season.
The flu is often more severe than a cold. While the flu shares some symptoms with the cold, it also comes with muscle aches, joint pains, fevers and chills. In some instances, the flu can also lead to stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.
Certain groups are at higher risk of experiencing more severe flu symptoms, including children under 5, the elderly, pregnant people and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people. So, if you belong to a high-risk group, or you’re experiencing severe flu symptoms or you have a high fever (over 38℃), be sure to check in with your doctor.
Unlike the common cold, the flu can be vaccinated against. In Australia, the flu season often starts in June and lasts until September. With this in mind, it’s usually recommended that you get vaccinated from April onwards to avoid getting sick and help prevent the spread of the virus.
Other notable viruses
Colds and flus aren’t the only respiratory illnesses caused by viruses. Let’s take a look at some of the other common respiratory viruses.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a viral infection that affects the lungs and airways. Along with the cold, this highly contagious virus is one of the most common causes of breathing infections in children. While most cases of RSV are mild, this infection can lead to serious complications for infants under 12 months.
Caused by the virus known as SARS-CoV-2, COVID-19 has infected millions worldwide since 2019. While most people who contract COVID-19 experience mild symptoms, the virus can be more serious for the elderly, pregnant people and people with underlying medical conditions.
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs, which can lead to inflammation. This causes the air sacs in your lungs to fill with fluid, making it difficult to breathe. Pneumonia can be caused by either bacteria or a virus. Cases range in severity from mild to life-threatening. Infants, the elderly and Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people are often at higher risk of severe infections.
Protecting yourself and others from viruses
When it comes to preventing the spread of the common cold, flu or other respiratory viruses, the best form of protection usually involves a combination of methods:
- Hand hygiene: Handwashing or using alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHRs) can help kill germs that you pick up on your hands.
- Respiratory etiquette: Covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze can also help to curb the spread of airborne particles, especially if you’re feeling unwell.
- Vaccinations: Get vaccinated against the flu each year.
- Wear a mask: Medical face masks provide a physical barrier against airborne particles. In particular, respirator masks act as a form of respiratory protection and infection control.
Respiratory viruses infect people year-round, so it’s essential to take precautions to guard your health and wellbeing. Understanding the differences between colds, flus and other respiratory illnesses is key for effective prevention and treatment. Protect yourself and your community with Detmold Medical’s range of high-quality face masks and respirators.
