DL, get some zinc lozenges next time you feel the cold coming on - they really do the trick. It's probably too late for them now, though, you need to take them at the first hint of a sore throat.

I'd pop some extra vit C and some glutamine throughout the day - both will help your body fight this thing and help you repair that muscle.

Using the ab roller is fine - whatever gets you doing it, right?

Cheers,
Nat