Every year, around the beginning of September, people begin to worry about cold and flu season. This concern tends to last through winter and may even reach panic level when the news stations report rising illness levels or the Center for Disease Control puts out a warning to be aware of a particular bug. Viral infections such as the H1N1 flu virus have gotten worldwide attention and caused panics due to the seriousness of the virus and the lack of information about viruses given to the listener.

What Are Viruses?

Viruses are submicroscopic , often disease-causing, DNA or RNA molecules that depend on living cells to reproduce and grow. Viral infections are caused by viruses but may be confused with bacterial infections. It is important to recognize the difference because bacterial infections are treated by antibiotics which are not effective against viruses.

What Are Some Examples Of Viruses?

The common cold and flu are two of the most recognized types of viruses as they are air-borne and transmit more easily because of frequent contact with people. Adenovirus is commonly confused with the common cold because of the similar symptoms. If not noticed and treated, complications can arise in the form of ear infections, pneumonia, meningitis or even skin rash. Viruses such as HIV and hepatitis are blood-borne and must be transmitted by more direct or intimate contact such as fluid to fluid transfer through intercourse.

What Are Some Viral Infection Symptoms?

The cold: Also known as a viral upper respiratory tract infection, the cold has more than 200 strain variations. Symptoms include nasal stuffiness and/or drainage, sneezing and sore throat. Headaches and fevers may accompany it. Typically, a cold will last from a couple days to a couple of weeks.

Influenza (the flu): Persons suffering from the flu are typically more sickly, display fevers, chills, dry cough, headaches, body aches and extreme tiredness.

Adenovirus: This virus affects small children more frequently than any other age population and will usually show up more than once in a person’s life. Symptoms can include swollen lymph nodes, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramping, urinary tract infection, and pinkeye. Symptoms may take up to two weeks to appear once exposed.

What Are The Most Effective Ways To Treat A Virus?

There really is no viral infection treatment that will cure the virus because the virus must run its course in the body. However, there are products and measures available to lessen the discomfort. Resting and drinking fluids are the most effective methods to recover. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen work well for fever and pain reduction. A cool-mist humidifier can be used to lessen chest congestion.

What Are Some Ways To Prevent Catching A Virus?

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water often. Do not share utensils or drinks. Use a hand sanitizer when soap and water is unavailable. Eat properly, and get adequate rest.