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Cold, Flu, or Pneumonia?

Cold, Flu, or Pneumonia?

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccination. It is not too late to get the flu vaccine this year and you should check with your healthcare provider for guidance. Getting the flu vaccine does not guarantee that you will not get the flu, but the duration and symptoms should be greatly reduced.
 

Cold

  • Symptoms develop slowly
  • Coughing, sneezing    
  • Sinus pain
  • Sore throat
  • Mild body aches
  • Symptoms subside within 4-9 days
  • Generally less severe than the flu
  • Can be treated with over-the-counter medications
  • Best remedies are rest and lots of fluids
  • Contact your healthcare provider if your cold persists for more than a week, if your cough suddenly worsens, or if you develop a fever
  • Colds are caused by viruses. Antibiotics are not used to treat viruses/colds 

Flu

  • Symptoms usually develop suddenly
  • Sudden high fever (above 100.40)
  • Significant body aches
  • Headaches
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Mild cough, mild sore throat
  • Symptoms typically subside within 2-5 days, although respiratory symptoms such as dry cough and sore throat may persist for up to 2 weeks.
  • Rest, drink lots of fluids, and take over-the-counter medication for fever and body aches
  • Prescription anti-virals (such as Tamiflu) may help you recover more quickly.  
    • It has been reported that antivirals (Tamiflu and/or Relenza) are most effective when administered within 48 hours of symptom onset.
  • Stay home until you have been without a fever for 24 hours.

Pneumonia

  • Symptoms usually start  a little faster than cold symptoms, but slower than flu symptoms
  • Viral pneumonia-deterioration over the course of 12-36 hours
  • Bacterial pneumonia happens when bacteria invades lungs that are weakened by a cold or flu
  • Shortness of breath is a common symptom
  • Sharp or stabbing pain with inhalation
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Excessive sweating
  • Increased breathing and heart rate
  • Blueness around the mouth and lips
  • Patients with pneumonia ALWAYS need to see a healthcare provider for treatment
  • When being treated for pneumonia, it is vital that patients complete the prescribed course of medication. 
    • Not completing all prescribed medications may result in relapse.

When in doubt about your symptoms, schedule an appointment at Health Services at 337-475-5748.

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Ashley Bass

I am a McNeese graduate with a bachelor's degree in Family and Consumer Science and a concentration in Child and Family Studies. As a student, I competed on the rodeo team and served on the SGA board. I earned my master’s degree in 2022 from the University of South Dakota in Educational Administration and Leadership with a concentration in Adult and Higher Ed. I have over 13 years of experience in adult education and 20 years of educational experience.

My favorite part of being a Freshman Advisor is helping students navigate their new life routine as a college freshman by offering support with in-person office visits or by email to help students meet their goals. I always remind students of my favorite BB King quote – “Education is one thing no one can ever take away from you.”  I believe that supporting students is vital to a student's success.

In my spare time, I raise registered American Brahman cattle, and I enjoy all the "country girl" things like hunting, fishing, growing a garden and cooking.

ADVISOR FOR:
  • College of Liberal Arts (excluding music)
  • Burton College of Education (ELEM and EDPR majors)