How scary for you. I assume that if you were still trying to put tampons in that means that there was still blood coming out which is a good thing though there is still an increased risk of infection. One of the biggest concerns with tampons being in for too long is toxic shock syndrome but if it's out then it shouldn't be too much of a concern anymore.

I hope you are fine, but symptoms of infection can be very similar feeling to that of the flu. If you have a temp at all, see a doctor even if you think it is from a cold. Infections are much easier to treat if caught early.

I hope that you are fine and you all recover from your colds quickly too