Every year, many people in the UK suffer from the flu or catch a common cold. The symptoms may feel similar—runny nose, sore throat, cough, and tiredness—but there are clear differences between the two.
While colds are usually mild and go away on their own, the flu can make you feel very sick and lead to serious health problems. This is why getting a flu vaccine is so important.
Flu vs Cold Symptoms: Know the Difference
It’s easy to confuse a cold with the flu because the symptoms can overlap. However, flu symptoms tend to be more intense and come on quickly. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Cold Symptoms: Sneezing, stuffy nose, mild sore throat, light cough, and slight tiredness.
- Flu Symptoms: High fever, chills, strong headaches, muscle aches, dry cough, extreme tiredness, and sometimes vomiting.
If you’re feeling unsure, it’s best to check with a pharmacist or a GP. They can guide you on the right treatment.
Flu Vaccine Effectiveness: Does It Really Work?
Yes, the flu vaccine really works. It doesn’t stop you from ever catching the flu, but it reduces your chances of getting seriously ill. The vaccine helps your body build protection against the most common flu viruses each season. Studies show that people who get the vaccine are less likely to need hospital treatment from flu-related complications.
The vaccine is especially important for:
- Older adults (65+)
- Pregnant women
- Children under 5
- People with long-term health problems
- Frontline healthcare workers
Even if you’re generally healthy, getting vaccinated helps protect people around you who may be more at risk.
Over-the-Counter Flu Medicines: What Helps?
Many people head to the pharmacy to buy over-the-counter flu medicines when they feel unwell. While there’s no cure for the flu, these medicines can help ease your symptoms. Here are some common options:
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen: Helps reduce fever and muscle pain.
- Cough syrups: Soothes a dry or chesty cough.
- Decongestants: Clears a blocked nose.
- Throat lozenges: Helps with sore throat and irritation.
Remember to always read the label and check with your pharmacist, especially if you are already taking other medications or have health conditions.
Common Myths About Flu Vaccines Debunked
Let’s clear up some common misunderstandings:
- “The flu vaccine gives you the flu.” – This is false. The vaccine does not contain live flu viruses, so it cannot give you the flu.
- “I had the vaccine last year, so I don’t need it this year.” – Not true. Flu viruses change every year, so you need the vaccine annually for the best protection.
- “I’m healthy, so I don’t need the vaccine.”- Even healthy people can catch the flu and pass it on to others. Getting vaccinated helps keep everyone safe.
- “The flu is just like a bad cold.”- Not really. The flu is much more serious and can lead to pneumonia or hospitalisation, especially in older adults or those with other health conditions.
Stay Safe This Season: Book Your Flu Vaccine Today!
Don’t wait until the flu hits your home. Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated. Anna Pharmacy makes it easy for you to stay healthy this winter. Book your flu vaccine appointment today at any of our branches in Sutton, Carshalton, or Hackbridge. Our friendly team is ready to help and answer any of your questions. Walk-ins are also welcome, subject to availability.