|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
BACK |
|
|
|
|
|
Cold vs influenza: What's the difference?
Although people tend to lump "colds" and influenza (commonly called "the flu") together, they really are distinct infections, caused by
different viruses. A very bad cold cannot turn into influenza (although a person with a cold could certainly come down with influenza if
he or she came in contact with influenza virus).
How can you tell the difference between a cold and influenza? The following comparison points out the similarities and differences.
Of course, in the case of any severe or long-lasting illness, you should contact your doctor.
| Symptom |
|
Cold |
|
Influenza |
|
|
|
| Fever |
|
Rare in adults and older children, but can be as high as 102°F in infants and
small children |
|
Usually 102°F, but can go up to 104°F and usually lasts 3 to 4 days |
|
|
|
|
|
| Headache |
|
Rare |
|
Sudden onset and can be severe |
|
|
|
|
|
| Muscle aches |
|
Mild |
|
Usually, and often severe |
|
|
|
|
|
| Tiredness and weakness |
|
Mild |
|
Can last 2 or more weeks |
|
|
|
|
|
| Extreme exhaustion |
|
Never |
|
Sudden onset and can be severe |
|
|
|
|
|
| Runny nose |
|
Often |
|
Sometimes |
|
|
|
|
|
| Sneezing |
|
Often |
|
Sometimes |
|
|
|
|
|
| Sore throat |
|
Often |
|
Sometimes |
|
|
|
|
|
| Cough |
|
Mild, hacking cough |
|
Usually, and can become severe |
|
|
|
|
|
Source: Adapted from National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Is it a cold or the flu? Available on-line at:
http://www.niaid.nih.gov/publications/cold/sick.pdf
|
|
|
|
|
|
BACK |
|
|
|
For U.S. Residents Only
