Difference Between Cold and Flu
Both are respiratory infections but with different severity. Colds develop gradually with mild symptoms: runny nose, sneezing, and sore throat. The flu hits suddenly with intense symptoms: high fever, severe body aches, exhaustion, and dry cough. Flu is more likely to cause serious complications. When in doubt, consult a healthcare provider.
Key Takeaways
- The common cold is caused by many virus types (often rhinoviruses) and primarily affects the nose and throat.
- COVID-19 can present similarly to flu; testing may be needed to distinguish them.
- Young children may have fever with colds more often than adults.
Explanation
The common cold is caused by many virus types (often rhinoviruses) and primarily affects the nose and throat. Symptoms develop over 1-3 days and typically include runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, mild cough, and sore throat. Fever is rare in adults with colds. Most people recover within 7-10 days.
Influenza (flu) is caused specifically by influenza viruses and affects the whole body. Symptoms come on abruptly and include high fever (100-104°F), severe muscle aches, profound fatigue, headache, and dry cough. Flu can lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in vulnerable populations.
While both are viral and have no cure (antibiotics do not work), the flu can be treated with antiviral medications if caught early (within 48 hours of symptoms). These can reduce severity and duration. Annual flu vaccines help prevent infection.
Things to Know
- COVID-19 can present similarly to flu; testing may be needed to distinguish them.
- Young children may have fever with colds more often than adults.
- Seek immediate care for difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or severe vomiting.