Student Support

Health Tips from the Wellbeing Team

What is a cold? What is the Flu?

Colds are the most common cause of illness in children and adults.

Most colds are caused by a virus; there are over 200 types of viruses that can cause the common cold.

We all know common colds are more common in the winter months. Cold weather by itself does not increase the chance of getting a cold. People are in closer contact with each other at this time of year, because they stay indoors, and so are more likely to infect each other. Viruses that cause colds are spread by sneezing, coughing and hand contact.

Influenza (the Flu) is a very contagious viral infection. It’s a respiratory illness that can affect your nose, throat and sometimes your lungs.

There are 2 main types of Influenza viruses: Influenza Type A and Influenza Type B.

There are also many sub-types and strains. The virus that causes COVID-19 is different from the virus that causes influenza. Influenza infections are more serious than the common cold.

Handy Tips - What you can do!

DON'T PANIC

Maintain good hygiene

Good hygiene practices were the most effective means of minimising the spread of COVID-19 and are also effective for preventing the spread of Influenza.

Staff, students and families can protect against all infections by practising good hand and respiratory hygiene.

Some tips that everyone at our school and within the community can all follow:

1. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing with a tissue, or cough into your elbow.

2. Dispose of the tissue into a bin and then wash your hands afterwards.

3. Wash your hands regularly, using soap and water, including after using the toilet, and before eating. Alcohol-based sanitiser (greater than 60 per cent alcohol) is a good back-up if soap and water is not readily accessible.

There is no cure for the common cold, however symptoms can be relieved. You can consider getting a Flu vaccine from our local health service to help alleviate the worst symptoms.

And if symptoms worsen, avoid spreading the germs, rest, look after yourself and check in and get some professional advice with our local health service. 

For more information refer to a trusted website like Healthdirect or Better Health channel. You can also contact NURSE-ON-CALL for expert health information and advice:

24 hours, 7 days a wee - phone 1300 60 60 24 – for expert health information and advice