Colds and Flu

It is sometimes hard to tell if you have a cold or the flu (also called influenza), because their symptoms are so similar. However, the flu may be more dangerous for your health than a cold, because it can lead to life-threatening illnesses such as pneumonia – so it is important to know the difference between the two. Here are some similarities and differences:

The cold is a common viral infection of the nose and throat and can be caused by many different types of viruses, the most common being Rhinovirus. Having a cold is usually harmless and symptoms usually resolve within two weeks. Common symptoms include:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Coughing
• Generally feeling unwell
• No fever or a low-grade fever

Most often, you don’t need medical care for the common cold but see your health care provider if you have symptoms that get worse or do not get better, a fever greater than 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit, returning fevers, shortness of breath, and wheezing.

The flu, also known as Influenza, is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs that is caused by a virus. Most people with the flu get better on their own but sometimes, influenza and its complications can be deadly. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Sever coughing
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• More severe muscle aches, chills, headache

To help protect yourself against seasonal flu, it is important to get an annual flu shot. You can also take other steps to help prevent both the cold & flu infection, such as clean and disinfect surfaces, washing your hands, covering your cough/sneeze, staying away from people with cold or flu, and more.