Every year we face Influenza [the flu]. Complications seem to develop quickly, generally for the young, the infirm and the elderly, but there are other conditions - generally chronic conditions - that complicate the treatment as well as the side effects of these viruses.

Additionally, there is always the cold virus going around. Sometimes we cannot identify what has hit us until after it is gone, that eliminates our ability to properly prepare for symptoms and side effects. All in all - viruses are nasty creatures to fight off.

To date, science has not been able to find an effective means of eliminating a virus from the body. So all we can do is plenty of water - to flush out the system and stay hydrated - and get a lot of rest - so our bodies have the strength to fight it off. There are many over-the-counter drugs that treat symptoms of the virus, and many times those are the difference between functioning and misery. But once you have a virus, there is nothing to fight it off except the human immune system, and that takes time. You can beat a virus in about seven days if you do not treat it. Approximately a week if you do.

It is a good idea to visit your health care provider sometime in late September through early November and get the latest flu shot. These are built from the cells of previous years' influenza. It is believed that this works by giving that DNA code for your body to fight off, thereby protecting you from those particular viruses.

The immunization shots are 70% effective. Those who contract the flu in spite of the immunization tend to experience a much milder version. However, since eggs are used in the production of the vaccine, anyone with severe egg allergies should not be immunized.

And if it turns out it is the cold virus? Well, plenty of fluids and lots of rest is the recommended treatment for that virus.