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 Cough: When the respiratory tract produces excess phlegm (mucus), coughing expels it , stopping infectious phlegm from descending into your lungs where it could lead to a serious chest infection. A productive cough produces phlegm. A non productive (dry) cough produces no phlegm, and is often caused by irritation. Dry cough along with leg and backaches, fever, headache and sore throat, may signal the flu. A cough with colored phlegm may be an infection such as bronchitis or sinusitis. A cough with wheezing and chest constriction may be asthma. For a cough that produces blood with chest pain you must see a doctor immediately. Sore throat: Within this broad category are problems such as tonsillitis, strep throat, laryngitis, epiglottitis, and so on, all of which are more specific terms indicating which part of the respiratory apparatus or what kind of germ is involved. Most cases of sore throat, especially when they accompany a common cold, are mild, cause a minimum of discomfort, and clear up within a few days. Not all sore throats are as benign as this, however, and parents should be alert to the possibility of a more serious infection. Be alert for rapidly worsening symptoms, especially distress or difficulty when breathing. Cold and flu viruses attack the nose, nasal sinuses, throat and the upper breathing tubes (trachea and bronchi).
As they invade the moist skin lining of these structures, they cause runny nose, sinus congestion, sneezing, sore throat and cough. Fever might also occur, usually with the flu.
These classic symptoms begin 1-4 days after contact with the virus and usually last 5-7 days, but can linger on.

Both colds and flu are caused by viruses, and the real difference between them is simply the type of virus that causes the illness.
The only way to catch a cold or flu is from other people.
The viruses are spread by tiny droplets in the air (such as from a cough or sneeze) or from direct contact (especially handshaking).
Infected people can spread the virus from a day or two before they even have symptoms to three or four days after the symptoms start.
Other more serious illnesses are associated with colds and may begin with the same symptoms.

 It is important to see your doctor for evaluation if any of the following occurs:
Severe, continuos vomiting or diarrhea lasting 8 hrs. or any vomiting and diarrhea not improved after 24 hrs; fever over 102 degrees, earache, shaking chills, difficulty breathing, skin rash, unusual lethargy or delirium,

 Alternative first aid for cough and sore throat:
Rest. Drink extra fluids. Gargle with warm salt water..
Chamomile tea is particularly effective in treating pain because of its soothing nature, and can be taken by all age groups. Sage is beneficial in treating pharyngitis and other throat pains by reducing inflammation and protecting the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.
Garlic, a natural antibiotic, can be helpful in the speeding up of recovery and removal of bacteria; Garlic can be taken in pill form by all age groups
An infusion of fresh Thyme with the addition of a teaspoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey is very effective, this can be taken three times a day.

Essential oil: put a drop of Tea Tree oil, Clove oil or sweet thyme oil on your tooth brush, the normal amount of tooth paste and brush your teeth normally; the essential oil act as a potent disinfectant, mixed with the tooth paste.

Homeopathic remedies:
Nux vomica: sensitive to least draught; sneezing from itching in nose, throat, trachea; great heat, burning but if uncover become chilly

Best alternative treatment:
Acupuncture: eliminate symptoms, boost immune system, facilitate recovery

Homeopathy: Clear symptoms quickly