Final answer:
The problem today is likely a fever, which is a symptom associated with various infections and illnesses. Fever often occurs with symptoms like headache and cough, as described in the case studies, leading to concerns about missing work or school. Identifying and treating such symptoms early is crucial for health.
Step-by-step explanation:
The problem today seems to be health-related symptoms that could indicate an illness such as the flu or another infectious disease. Given the symptoms provided, such as fever, headache, cough, and nausea, the best option to describe the problem today would be a fever. A fever is a common symptom associated with various infections and illnesses and is often accompanied by other symptoms like a headache or a bad cough. Individuals such as Barbara and Michael, who have experienced a range of symptoms leading to a doctor's visit, demonstrate the importance of recognizing the signs of disease early to seek appropriate medical care.
In the cases mentioned, individuals experienced disruptions in their daily lives due to illness, including concerns about missing work or school and social engagements. For example, a college student with persistent fever and cough could be dealing with complications from the flu, while an older man with a violent cough and high fever might be at risk for a serious infection requiring immediate medical attention.
Symptoms such as stomachache and diarrhea which are mentioned, while important, do not seem to align as closely with the problem today as the ones more associated with respiratory or flu-like symptoms.