Human influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. Different strains circulate every year, which can make the flu difficult to defend against. Influenza typically starts with a headache, chills and cough, followed rapidly by fever, loss of appetite, muscle aches and fatigue, running nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, especially in children.

Most people will recover from influenza within a week or ten days, but some - including those over 65 and adults and children with chronic conditions, such as diabetes and cancer - are at greater risk of more severe complications, such as pneumonia. Between 2 000 and 8 000 Canadians can die of influenza and its complications annually, depending on the severity of the season.

Source: Public Health Agency of Canada (www.publichealth.gc.ca)

The influenza virus primarily spreads through droplets that have been coughed or sneezed by someone who has the flu. You can get the flu if these droplets come into contact with the surface of your eye, nose or mouth.

Source: Public Health Agency of Canada (www.publichealth.gc.ca)

Influenza typically starts with a headache, chills and cough, followed rapidly by fever, loss of appetite, muscle aches and fatigue, running nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation.

A cold is a mild infection of the upper respiratory passages caused by a variety of viruses. A cold may last for a week and symptoms include a runny nose, stuffy nose, cough and sore throat. A cold is caused by a rhinovirus, which is much different than an influenza virus. A person with a cold will not usually have a headache, fever or muscle aches. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea do not usually accompany a cold.

Source: Public Health Agency of Canada (www.publichealth.gc.ca)

Since the formulations of NeoCitran® products are different, you must always carefully read the packages and follow the directions to ensure it is right for you.

Do not use NeoCitran® with any other product containing acetaminophen.

Consult a physician if:

• Pain lasts for more than 5 days
• Fever extends beyond 3 days
• Sore throat lasts for more than 2 days
• Cough worsens, persists for more than a week, or is accompanied by too much phlegm (mucus), high fever, rash, persistent headache, nausea or vomiting.

If you consume 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day, ask your doctor whether you should take the NeoCitran® products that contain acetaminophen or other pain relievers/fever reducers. Acetaminophen may cause liver damage.

Call a Poison Control Centre or doctor immediately, even if you do not notice any signs or symptoms within the first 24 hours such as increased sweating, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and loss of appetite.