What's the difference between a cold and the flu?

The terms flu and cold are reasonably self-explanatory, however it's not uncommon for the two to become a little confused with each other.

Over 200 viruses can cause respiratory tract infection with various signs and symptoms. Interestingly, the flu vaccination only gives protection against certain strains of influenza, and not against the common cold. While not as severe as flu, common colds can still lead to secondary complications in individuals who have compromised immunity.

The chart below explains the different between colds and flu more clearly:

Symptoms	Cold	Flu
fever	rare	high, lasts 3-4 days
headache	rare	prominent
aches & pains	slight	usual, often severe
weak, fatigue	mild	up to 2-3 weeks
exhaustion	never	early & prominent
stuffy nose	common	sometimes
sneezing	usual	sometimes
sore throat	common	sometimes
cough	hacking	can be severe

For a gentle but effective way to boost your immunity this winter, make a flask of Healtheries Be Well herbal tea, and sip the contents daily. Containing Echinacea, Lemon, Rosehip and Vitamin C, Be Well will help promote defence and keep you hydrated from the drying effects of heated homes, cars and offices or cold blustery winds outside.

Healtheries Odorlous Garlic 5000 is another fantastic natural product ideal for those prone to colds/flu and bronchitis. The odourless Garlic used in this product is deodorised through a unique process that retains the active ingredients, minerals, trace elements and enzymes present in raw garlic, while eliminating the pungent odour.

Another supplement that will help provide you with winter wellness is Healtheries Acerola C - natural source of Vitamin C and bioflavonoids, Acerola C is a pleasant tasting tablet that can be chewed, or sucked or swallowed.

Lastly, Healtheries Olive Leaf enhances protection against viruses and bacteria and supports the cardiovascular system. Olive Leaf is a renowned herb useful in speeding recovery from viruses and chronic infections and help to increase energy levels depleted by low immunity.