Page Chen, G10, RDF International School As Shenzhen transitions from winter to spring, the rainy season arrives, bringing with it recurrent health concerns of colds and the flu. Many people find themselves under the weather, yet often there’s confusion regarding the distinction between these two ailments. Are you aware of differentiating between cold and flu symptoms? One primary difference is the severity. The flu tends to hit harder than a common cold and can lead to more severe health complications. While a cold is generally milder and more manageable, the flu warrants greater caution due to its potential intensity. To discern whether you have a cold or the flu, consider the onset of symptoms. The flu typically strikes quickly, with symptoms like chills and fever that are infrequent in cases of the common cold. On the other hand, a cold usually manifests with sneezing, a runny nose, and a sore throat. But why are these illnesses different? The contrasting severity of symptoms can be traced back to their biological causes. Influenza viruses exclusively cause the flu, leading to more specifically defined symptoms. Colds, however, can be induced by a variety of viruses, including rhinovirus, parainfluenza, and seasonal coronaviruses, adding up to more than 200 possible culprits. Preventing colds and flu becomes the next logical consideration. Last year, I was frequently ill and sought to understand why. I realized that while medication does support healing, true recovery hinges on the strength of our own bodies. With this revelation, I’ve made regular exercise an essential part of my routine. Each morning, I jog long distances, savoring the serotonin surge and the sunrise. During winter breaks, I cycle alongside our principal, Mr. Steve, and classmates to build my endurance. And every Wednesday, I play badminton with friends, reveling in the game’s joy and reminding myself of the mantra, “Life is sports.” | 