You most likely have an upper respiratory infection (URI="common cold") rather than influenza.

An upper respiratory infection (URI) is caused by one of several viruses different from the influenza virus. Common symptoms include runny nose, stuffy nose, sore throat, congestion at the back of the throat (post nasal drip), cough, lightheadedness, headache, muscle aches, fever and chills. Less common symptoms include sneezing, swollen lymph nodes in the neck and nausea. Most URIs last 7-10 days.

Because URIs are caused by viruses, antibiotics will not help you feel better, nor will antibiotics shorten the course of the illness. Similarly, anti-influenza medications will not help a URI. There are, however, several things you can do that will help you feel better while you are getting better on your own. Please visit our Symptom Control page for more information.

If you have any questions, please call the Student Health Service at 994-2311.

Return to regular view	Text-only	Updated: 7/4/2006