Is It Cold Or Flu?
Although often confused with the common cold, influenza is more severe and poses a greater health concern. Every year, an estimated 17 million to 50 million cases of influenza are reported nationwide — many of which occur in otherwise healthy people.
Similar to the common cold, the flu can produce respiratory symptoms, such as runny nose, coughing, and sore throat. However, the influenza virus typically causes more intense symptoms, such as sudden onset of fever, headache, and muscle aches in children, adolescents, and adults. Unlike symptoms of the common cold, the fatigue and cough caused by the flu can last more than two weeks — lingering long after other symptoms subside. Children often spend a week or more in bed due to the flu. It may also lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and even death.
The table below shows some of the differences in symptoms between the common cold and the flu. This table is for information purposes only. If you or your children experience any of these symptoms, please consult a health care professional.
| Symptoms | Flu | Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Source: National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases; National Institutes of Health | ||
| Fever | Usually 102°F, but can go up to 104°F and usually lasts three to four days | Rare in adults and older children, but can be as high as 102°F in infants and small children |
| Headache | Sudden onset and can be severe | Rare |
| Muscle aches | Usual, and often severe | Mild |
| Tiredness and weakness | Can last two or more weeks | Mild |
| Extreme exhaustion | Sudden onset and can be severe | Never |
| Runny nose | Sometimes | Often |
| Sneezing | Sometimes | Often |
| Sore throat | Sometimes | Often |
| Cough | Usual, and can become severe | Mild, hacking cough |
| Complications | Bronchitis, pneumonia; can be life-threatening | Sinus congestion, Middle ear infection, Asthma |
| Treatment | Antiviral medicines — see your doctor | Antihistamines, Decongestant, Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines |
| Prevention | Annual vaccination; antiviral medicines — see your doctor | Wash your hands often, Avoid close contact with anyone with a cold |
Learn how you can help stop flu symptoms from affecting your loved ones with five simple prevention tips.
Learn about effective ways to help prevent the flu in your children »
Stand back! Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick, too.