Cold and flu advice

As the nights begin to draw in, there seems to be a definite chill in the air. Winter has arrived and it's time to wrap up warm to protect yourself against the dreaded cold and flu (influenza).
Colds and flu occur all year round, but seem to be most common in the winter months. No-one is quite sure why, but it may be because many people spend more time indoors, with closer contact between other people and are getting less fresh air.
Unsurprisingly, colds are the most common upper respiratory illness in the UK. Both colds and flu are caused by viruses, which are highly contagious. They spread when people who are infected sneeze or cough, sending tiny droplets of infected saliva into the air.

The main symptoms of a cold are:
-sneezing
-a sore throat, and
-a blocked or runny nose.

**Colds are the most common upper respiratory illness in the UK**

You may also have a high temperature, feel tired, or have regular headaches.