Cold vs. Flu
The CDC has developed several online resources to help families determine if their loved one is suffering from the common cold or influenza.
Differences between cold and influenza (flu) symptoms
Cold: The signs and symptoms of common colds can include a gradual onset of symptoms, fevers are rare, slight aches, chills are uncommon, sometimes fatigue and weakness, sneezing is common, chest discomfort is mild to moderate, stuffy nose is common, sore throat is common, and headaches are rare.
Flu: The signs and symptoms of flu can include abrupt onset, fever is usual, aches are usual, chills are fairly common, fatigue and weakness are usual, sometimes sneezing, chest discomfort is common, sometimes stuffy nose, sometimes sore throat, headaches are common.
Because flu and the common cold have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms are typically more intense and begin more abruptly. Special tests are available to tell if a person has influeza.
Differences between a cold and influenza
Colds are usually milder than flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose than people who have flu. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. Flu can have serious associated complications.
Influenza (flu) and the common cold are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Flu is caused by influenza viruses only, whereas the common cold can be caused by a number of different viruses, including rhinoviruses, parainfluenza, and seasonal coronaviruses. Seasonal coronaviruses should not be confused with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
If symptoms are worsening or you're unsure if you have the common cold or flu, either call your primary care provider or visit Convenience Care - our walk-in clinic located at Prairie Lakes Brown Clinic Northridge open Monday - Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.