流感用药要避开这些误区（名医讲堂）

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between influenza and the common cold, highlighting the differences in symptoms, causative viruses, and appropriate treatments to avoid mismanagement of the illnesses [2][3]. Group 1: Differences Between Influenza and Common Cold - Influenza is caused by influenza viruses (type A and B) and is highly contagious, while the common cold is primarily caused by rhinoviruses and coronaviruses, which are less contagious [3]. - Symptoms of influenza typically include high fever (39-40 degrees Celsius), muscle aches, and severe fatigue, whereas common cold symptoms are milder, often involving nasal congestion, runny nose, and low-grade fever [3]. - Treatment approaches differ: antiviral medications are effective for influenza and can prevent severe illness, while common cold treatment focuses on symptom relief, with antiviral drugs being ineffective [3]. Group 2: Common Medication Misconceptions - Misuse of antibiotics for fever is a common mistake; antibiotics target bacteria, not viruses, and their misuse can lead to antibiotic resistance, posing future health risks [4]. - Stopping antiviral medication prematurely can allow the virus to persist, increasing the risk of recurrence and potential resistance; for instance, oseltamivir should be taken for a full five-day course [4]. - Combining multiple medications can be dangerous; for example, taking both combination cold medications and additional fever reducers can lead to overdose, stressing the liver and kidneys [4].