1. Flu (Influenza)
🟢 What is it?
Flu is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. It spreads quickly, especially in autumn and winter.
🔴 Symptoms:
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Sudden high fever (38–40°C / 100.4–104°F)
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Headache and fatigue
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Muscle and joint pain
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Dry cough and sore throat
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Runny or blocked nose
💊 Treatment:
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Drink plenty of fluids (water, warm teas)
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Rest in bed
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Use fever-reducing medicine (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
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Antiviral medicine (only if prescribed by a doctor)
Note: Antibiotics do NOT work, because flu is caused by a virus.
🤧 2. Common Cold (also called Acute Respiratory Viral Infection – ARVI)
🟢 What is it?
A mild viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and breathing passages. It is very common and less serious than the flu.
🔴 Symptoms:
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Sneezing and runny nose
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Mild fever (below 38°C / 100.4°F)
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Scratchy or sore throat
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Headache, tiredness, watery eyes
💊 Treatment:
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Use saline drops to clear the nose
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Drink warm liquids (lemon tea, herbal tea, soup)
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Rest and sleep
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Vitamin C may help boost the immune system
😮💨 3. Bronchitis
🟢 What is it?
Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes (lower airways in the lungs). It often happens after the flu or a cold.
🔴 Symptoms:
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Cough (dry or with mucus) — may last 1 to 2 weeks
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Chest discomfort or pain
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Mild fever (in some cases)
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Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
💊 Treatment:
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Take cough medicine (expectorants for mucus)
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Inhalation therapy (steam or saline)
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Drink more fluids
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Antibiotics only if prescribed — for bacterial bronchitis, not viral
✅ Helpful Tips to Prevent Illness:
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Wash your hands regularly with soap
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Dress warmly in cold weather
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Get a flu vaccine every year, if possible
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Wear a mask in crowded places during flu season