How can you tell the difference between a cold and flu?
The common cold is a contagious respiratory illness most often caused by a viral infection. The common cold and symptoms typically begin more abruptly than the flu and are usually milder than the flu.
Because colds and flu share many symptoms, it can be difficult (or even impossible) to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Special tests can tell if a person is sick with flu. If your cold symptoms are becoming severe or last a week or more, it may be time to visit a doctor.
What are the symptoms of flu versus the symptoms of a cold?
The symptoms of flu can include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue (tiredness). Cold symptoms are usually milder than the symptoms of flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems.
What is the treatment for a cold and flu?
Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections and are usually not useful for a cold as it is a viral infection and not a bacterial infection. Taking antibiotics when it is not necessary can contribute to your building a resistance to other bacteria, causing you to be susceptible to further conditions and organisms that might not be fought off with antibiotics. Your doctor is the best one to help you determine if antibiotics are indicated. If your doctor says your illness will not respond to antibiotics, continue practicing good hygiene practices like washing hands and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
The best way to reduce the risk of seasonal respiratory illnesses is using preventive actions like avoiding people who are sick, covering your cough and washing your hands to help stop the spread of germs. For the flu, follow these same steps as well as getting a flu vaccination.
Is it a cold or flu?
Signs and symptoms | Cold | Flu |
Symptoms onset | Gradual | Abrupt |
Fever | Rare | Usual |
Aches | Slight | Usual |
Chills | Uncommon | Fairly common |
Fatigue, weakness | Sometimes | Usual |
Sneezing | Common | Sometimes |
Chest discomfort, cough | Mild to moderate | Common |
Stuffy nose | Common | Sometimes |
Sore throat | Common | Sometimes |
Headache | Rare | Common |
Reference: cdc.gov