I have a 10-year-old old sister. She frequently suffers from cold every season. We have given her medicines as per the pharmacist’s prescription, but they don’t seem to have any effect. Please suggest ways to cure this problem permanently.

— Ruth R

I do have the gut feeling that your sister might be having flu instead of just a common cold because of two factors. Firstly you mention the term seasonal which is synonymous with flu — unlike the cold, which can hit at any time of year, the flu is generally seasonal. Flu season usually runs from fall to spring, peaking during the winter months. Secondly, you mention that over the counter medications did not have an effect. Common cold would have responded to some degree.

The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Because these two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, the flu is the worse version of the common cold.

The seasonal flu is caused by the influenza A, B, and C viruses. Active strains of influenza virus vary from year to year and the vaccines accordingly. Symptoms can be varied like dry, hacking cough, moderate-to-high fever (although not everyone with the flu will run a fever), sore throat, shaking chills, severe muscle or body aches, headache, stuffy and runny nose, and profound fatigue which may last up to two weeks.

In most cases, fluids and rest are the best way to treat the flu. Over-the-counter decongestants and pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen may control your symptoms and help you feel better. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.

Specific anti-viral medications might shorten the duration of the flu but have to be taken within 48 hours of initial symptoms to really have any effect. To avoid picking up the influenza virus, wash your hands often and thoroughly with warm soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth, and try to stay away from anyone who has the flu or flu-like symptoms.

It’s important to adopt healthy habits to keep cold and flu germs at bay. You should always make sure you get plenty of sleep, eat lots of fruits and vegetables, exercise, and manage your stress during cold and flu season and beyond. Last but not the least, one of the best ways to prevent the flu is by getting the flu shot. Do consult a child specialist or an experienced general physician with the above data in hindsight.

— Dr Ranjeet S Baral