A runny nose, a sore throat, watery eyes, a fever, hot and cold flashes, body aches and pains.

These are the familiar symptoms that accompany the cold and flu season that runs its course between November and April of every year. A ride on the annual germ wagon often means time away from school or work. The flu bug can be disruptive from anywhere between 3-5 days to three weeks or more.

For more information on COPD, its symptoms, diagnosis and how to manage the disorder, visit the Canadian Lung Association's website.

You can also visit The Lung Association, Alberta & NWT's influenza resource centre.